PAmidst the danger of fire, Istanbul bans entry into the forest

Turkey’s largest city Istanbul has banned entry into its forested areas in view of the growing fire threat. Istanbul Governor Ali Yerlikaya announced on Twitter that the restrictions would remain in place for now, as the city is on high alert for high temperatures accompanied by strong winds.

Yerlikaya said, it is forbidden to enter the forests, stay in and around and have picnics.

Local authorities in several other provinces have imposed similar restrictions in view of the ongoing wildfires across the country.
The ban deadline has been extended to September in some areas.

Turkey has been battling multiple blasts in more than 20 provinces since Wednesday, which have so far killed at least four people and injured more than 180.

Firefighters are working hard to douse the fire in the coastal town of Marmaris in Mugla province.
A highway that connects Marmaris with Datka, another resort town in Mugla, was closed to traffic after the flames broke out.

Marmaris Mayor Mehmet Okte called on residents not to take to the streets unless it was absolutely necessary for medical teams and fire-fighting vehicles.