2025 Bridge and Highway Tolls Increased by 43 Percent

The General Directorate of Highways (KGM) announced that bridge and highway tolls have been increased by 2025 percent for 43. While this regulation is of great importance especially for vehicle owners, the new toll tariffs of the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, July 15 Martyrs Bridge, Osmangazi Bridge, Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge and 1915 Çanakkale Bridge have become a matter of curiosity. Here are the details and the increase rates in bridge tolls…

Increased Bridge and Highway Tolls

The new tariffs, which will be valid as of January 13, 2025, were announced in an official statement by the General Directorate of Highways. The statement stated that highways and bridges cover facilities operated within the framework of the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model. The new fee schedule includes increases at different rates according to vehicle classes.

• July 15 Martyrs Bridge and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge:
  The toll for automobiles on these bridges has been increased by 42%. The toll, which was 33 TL in the old tariff, has increased to 47 TL. While the toll for motorcycles is 20 TL, this figure has increased to 60 TL for minibuses.
• The Osmangazi Bridge:
  The increase rate on the Osmangazi Bridge was determined as 42,3%. The automobile toll increased from 555 TL to 795 TL. Detailed tariffs according to vehicle classes are as follows:
  • 1. class: 795 TL
  • 2. class: 1.270 TL
  • 3. class: 1.510 TL
  • 4. class: 2.005 TL
  • 5. class: 2.530 TL
  • Motorcycles: 555 TL
• Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge:
  There was a 15% increase in the toll on this bridge. The automobile toll increased from 70 TL to 80 TL. The tolls for other vehicle classes are as follows:
  • 1. class: 80 TL
  • 2. class: 110 TL
  • 3. class: 200 TL
  • 4. class: 510 TL
  • 5. class: 630 TL
  • Motorcycles: 55 TL
• 1915 Canakkale Bridge:
  The increase rate on this bridge was determined as 35%. New tariffs according to vehicle classes:
  • 1. class: 795 TL
  • 2. class: 990 TL
  • 3. class: 1.780 TL
  • 4. class: 1.975 TL
  • 5. class: 3.755 TL
  • Motorcycles: 200 TL

Reasons for the Increases

KGM stated that the increase was made necessary due to increasing operating costs and inflation rates. In addition, the provision of financing required for the maintenance, operation and development of bridges and highways was explained as the main reason for these increases.

Citizens' Reaction

Following the announcement of the increase rates, citizens voiced their reactions to the new tariffs on social media platforms. In particular, the increases in facilities with high tolls, such as Osmangazi and the 1915 Çanakkale Bridge, could seriously affect drivers' budgets.

Alternative Solution Suggestions

For drivers affected by high tolls, some alternative solutions can be considered:

• Subscription and Discounted Pass Systems: A subscription system or mass transit discount can be provided for drivers who use frequently.
• Public Support: Government subsidies can be applied for strategic bridges and highways.
• Public Transport IncentiveMaking public transport systems more accessible instead of private car use can reduce traffic congestion and the impact of tolls.

As of 2025, the increases in bridge and highway tolls are of great concern to vehicle owners. Although the justification for the increases is cost, it is clear that they will strain citizens' budgets. In the long term, it is important to take steps towards sustainable transportation policies and cost management.