Welcome to our midweek round-up of the latest news and updates from Fethiye and across Turkey.
Curated from various news sources.
Turkey Enters Critical Wildfire Season as Aydın Blaze Forces Evacuations
TURKEY– Turkey has entered a high-alert wildfire season marked by soaring temperatures, prolonged drought, and heightened fire risks—conditions that have already triggered major incidents, including a fast-moving forest fire in the Aegean city of Aydın on June 21.
The blaze, which began in agricultural and shrubland areas, quickly spread to nearby forests, prompting the evacuation of an entire neighbourhood and the mobilization of extensive firefighting resources.
Night-vision helicopters worked through the night, and by the morning of June 22, the fire was successfully brought under control. While the cause is still under investigation, preliminary findings suggest an explosion at an electrical transformer may have ignited the fire.
Three individuals were treated for smoke inhalation, though no serious injuries were reported.
Heightened Fire Risk Across Turkey
Wildfires are a seasonal challenge in Turkey , especially in the Aegean and Mediterranean regions, where high temperatures and dry air create ideal conditions for fires to ignite and spread.
Experts warn that the current environmental conditions are pushing Turkey into a critical fire danger period.
“More than 11 consecutive rainless days, combined with low humidity and soaring temperatures, significantly increase the wildfire risk,” said Professor Şermin Tağıl, an expert in geographic information systems. “If this trend continues, we could face even more dangerous fire outbreaks in the coming months.”
Istanbul Forest Ban Announced
In response to rising concerns, Istanbul authorities have introduced a forest access ban effective from June 23 to October 15, aimed at reducing the risk of human-caused fires.
The ban includes:
- 🚫 No entry to forested areas
- 🔥 Prohibition on lighting fires or barbecues
- 🚭 Ban on using gas canisters and smoking hookahs in forests
The Istanbul Governor’s Office cited increased summer tourism and outdoor activity as major fire hazards and stressed the importance of proactive prevention.
As Turkey faces a challenging summer ahead, officials urge all residents and tourists to act responsibly and report any signs of fire immediately to the 112 Emergency Call Centre. Public cooperation is considered essential in avoiding future disasters and protecting the country’s natural heritage.
Small-Scale Fire Near Amintas Rock Tombs Quickly Contained
FETHIYE, MUĞLA – A small-scale fire broke out this afternoon in the grassy area surrounding the historic Amintas Rock Tombs in Fethiye, prompting swift action from local emergency teams.
The fire, believed to have started in dry stubble near the excavation site, was quickly brought under control thanks to the rapid response of firefighting teams. No damage was reported to the ancient tombs, which are among Fethiye’s most iconic landmarks and a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists.
Although the exact cause of the fire remains undetermined, authorities noted that the dry grass and windy conditions in the area posed a serious risk of the fire spreading. Fortunately, thanks to the coordinated efforts of the intervention teams, the flames were contained before they could reach the excavation zone or threaten the integrity of the tombs.
Officials have reminded the public to be vigilant, especially during the hot summer months when fire risks are significantly heightened due to low humidity and high temperatures.
An investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.
Source: https://www.dostgazetesi.com/amintas-kaya-mezarlari-nda-ufak-capli-yangin/33970/
New Traffic Relief System Launched to Ease Congestion in Fethiye
FETHIYE, TURKEY – A new boarding and disembarkation point has been officially implemented on Atatürk Street in Fethiye, as part of a joint initiative by Fethiye Municipality and Muğla Metropolitan Municipality to ease seasonal traffic congestion and enhance tourist safety.
With thousands of tourists arriving daily for boat tours of the famous 12 islands and bays, Atatürk Street has become a significant traffic bottleneck, especially during the busy morning and evening hours. To address this, a 50-metre stretch opposite the Likya Business Centre has now been designated as a fixed landing and boarding area, exclusively for TÜRSAB-certified tour buses. The new system will remain in effect until 15 November 2025.
It is now prohibited for tour vehicles to pick up or drop off passengers outside this designated area. A license plate recognition system has been installed to monitor access and ensure compliance. Tour buses violating the rule may face penalties.
Özgen Uysal, President of TÜRSAB’s Western Mediterranean Regional Representative Board, praised the move:
“Fethiye is a vital tourism destination. This arrangement not only enhances the safety of our guests but also helps us avoid the chaos previously experienced in traffic. We thank Mayor Alim Karaca and Metropolitan Mayor Ahmet Aras for supporting tourism in the region.”
Fethiye Mayor Alim Karaca underlined the importance of the initiative:
“Tourist safety is our top priority. This system will help us manage traffic flow better during peak times, and it’s just the beginning. We are planning a series of infrastructure projects to relieve pressure across the town.”
Future Projects in the Pipeline
Mayor Karaca revealed further plans aimed at solving the town’s long-term traffic issues, including:
- Construction of a multi-storey car park in the Salı Pazarı area, with plans awaiting final approval from the Ministry in Ankara.
- Introduction of an electric vehicle shuttle service within the city.
- Implementation of smart junction systems to improve traffic coordination.
- Relocation of the intercity bus terminal to a newly expropriated 8,000 sqm area near Çamköy, with an additional 17,000 sqm pending acquisition.
- Development of alternative road networks to reduce congestion in central Fethiye.
Mayor Karaca emphasised the importance of cooperation:
“We are tackling these issues together—with our municipalities, TÜRSAB, and local stakeholders. As Fethiye continues to grow in popularity both nationally and internationally, we must act now to ensure our infrastructure keeps pace.”
The new traffic regulation is already being enforced, with local businesses and tour operators expressing hope that the system will create a safer, more organised experience for tourists and residents alike.
For further details on the implementation or upcoming infrastructure projects, residents and visitors are encouraged to follow official communications from Fethiye Municipality.
Source: https://www.fethiyetv.com/fethiyede-trafigi-rahatlatacak-cozum-uygulamaya-konuldu
Long Queues on Fethiye-Rhodes Ferry Route Set to End with New Measures
FETHIYE, TURKEY – In a significant move to boost regional tourism and streamline travel, the long-standing issue of queues at the Fethiye-Rhodes ferry terminal is finally being resolved. A coordinated effort between public institutions and tourism stakeholders has led to major improvements at the Fethiye customs gate, promising faster and more efficient passenger processing for travellers between Türkiye and Greece.
The initiative was spearheaded by the Fethiye Municipality, Fethiye Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FTSO), IMEAK Chamber of Shipping Fethiye Branch, TÜRSAB Western Mediterranean BTK, Fethiye Hoteliers Union Association, Ölüdeniz Tourism Development Cooperative, and supported by the Fethiye Customs Directorate, Port Authority, Muğla Metropolitan Municipality, and the Fethiye Police Department.
Key Improvements Implemented
As a direct response to concerns raised during a 3-day delegation visit to Rhodes in early May, several upgrades have now been completed at the Fethiye port:
- 👮♂️ Number of police and passport control cabins doubled from 2 to 4
- 📸 Facial recognition cameras and IT infrastructure updated to modern standards
- 🚪 Improved layout of customs area for smoother passenger flow
These changes are already in effect and are expected to drastically reduce waiting times for both entry and exit procedures during peak travel periods.
Ferry Services Expanding from July 1
In addition to infrastructure improvements, morning ferry trips from Rhodes to Fethiye—a key request from Greek tourism agencies—have now begun. The first test voyage took place on June 15, receiving high demand, and full service expansion is set for July 1.
“We believe that these changes will strengthen ties between Fethiye and Rhodes, contributing not only to tourism but also to trade and cultural exchange,” the delegation said in a joint statement.
Delegation Thanks Officials for Swift Action
A thank-you visit was recently paid by a delegation including:
- Oğuz Bolelli, Deputy Mayor of Fethiye
- Osman Çıralı, Chairman of FTSO
- Özgen Uysal, Chairman of TÜRSAB Western Mediterranean BTK
- İlkay Tugay, Chairman of the Chamber of Shipping Fethiye Branch
- Saffet Dündar, Manager of Fethiye Tourism Information Office
They expressed gratitude to Fethiye Customs Director Bülent Kınalı, Port Director Çetin Çiftci, and supporting institutions for their swift response in implementing solutions.
“Thanks to this collaboration, we’ve addressed one of the major bottlenecks impacting cross-border travel. We thank everyone involved in facilitating a smoother, more welcoming experience for visitors,” the delegation noted.
With enhanced infrastructure and increased ferry frequency, Fethiye is poised for a stronger tourism season, with easier and more enjoyable travel between the Turkish coast and the Greek island of Rhodes.
Source: https://www.fethiyetv.com/fethiye-rodos-seferlerinde-uzayan-kuyruklar-sona-eriyor
Crackdown on Illegal Holiday Rentals in Fethiye Continues — Over 6 Million TL in Fines Issued
FETHIYE, TURKEY – Authorities in Fethiye have intensified inspections on unlicensed holiday rentals, resulting in administrative fines exceeding 6 million TL as part of a wider effort to regulate the booming tourism accommodation sector.
During recent inspections, 42 villas found to be operating without the mandatory “Tourism Rental Document” were hit with a combined penalty of 6,045,060 TL. Each property was fined 143,930 TL for its first offence under current regulations.
Officials warned that repeat violations would face significantly higher penalties:
- Second offence: 719,650 TL
- Third offence: 1,439,300 TL
With increasing demand for short-term rentals during the tourism season, Fethiye has become a hotspot for both legal and illegal holiday accommodations. Authorities have responded by stepping up checks to ensure compliance with tourism legislation designed to protect guests, regulate the market, and ensure tax and safety obligations are met.
Local enforcement teams have announced that inspections will continue throughout the summer, and property owners are being urged to apply for the necessary permits before offering their homes for short-term rental.
Warning to Homeowners
Authorities have reminded landlords that offering a property for tourism purposes without official registration is a serious offence. The escalating scale of fines is intended to deter repeat violations and encourage owners to operate legally.
“Tourism is vital to our region, but it must be managed responsibly,” an inspection official stated. “We’re committed to ensuring guest safety and market fairness by continuing these inspections without interruption.”
Property owners in Fethiye who wish to rent their homes legally can apply for a Tourism Rental Document through the relevant provincial tourism authority. Additional details and application procedures are available through official government channels.
Source: Fethiye TV
Ancient city of Tralleis in western Türkiye to welcome visitors after decades of excavations
AYDIN, TURKEY – The ancient city of Tralleis, nestled in the Efeler district of western Turkey’s Aydın province, is preparing to welcome visitors for the first time following decades of dedicated archaeological work.
Founded nearly 3,000 years ago by Thracians and Argives, Tralleis is believed to be the birthplace of the world’s first notated music. This historic city, rich in cultural and architectural heritage, has undergone extensive excavation and restoration since work began in 1996.
Among its standout features is the gymnasium complex, commonly referred to as the Triumphal Arch, which still stands as a striking monument to Roman engineering. Other key remains include a marble-paved avenue, Roman baths, a theatre, agora, temples, early Christian churches, and vast necropolises.
Professor Murat Çekilmez of Aydın Adnan Menderes University, who heads the excavation project, told Anadolu Agency that preparations are nearing completion to open Tralleis to the public by August 2025. Çekilmez has been involved in the site since his student years and continues to lead excavations with a tireless dedication, often working over 10 hours a day during the field season.
“Visitors will soon be able to walk the same marble-paved streets as ancient Tralleians did centuries ago,” Çekilmez said. “With continued restoration and landscaping, we aim to position Tralleis as a cultural focal point for the region.”
Funding from the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s ‘Heritage for the Future Project’ has enabled completion of critical restoration tenders and is paving the way for the site’s long-awaited public debut.
The official opening in August 2025 is expected to significantly boost cultural tourism in Aydın, offering a rare glimpse into one of the Aegean’s most storied ancient settlements.
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