IBB Investigates Malfunctions of VT in Istanbul

The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB) has begun investigating the increasing malfunctions of escalators and elevators in the city’s rail system by officially requesting information and documents from the Rail Systems Department regarding issues with the vertical transportation (VT), the Daily Sabah reports. Hoping to determine the cause of the malfunctions, the investigation requested “copies of IBB Council decisions related to the department’s duties and regulations, including information on the maintenance and repair operations that are essential for the continuity of operations.” It also asked for details about the necessary revisions, upgrades and renewal investments for facilities, infrastructure and rail system vehicles during operations. A legal explanation regarding the division of responsibilities and authority between IBB and Metro Istanbul AŞ during service operations was also requested. Communications between Metro Istanbul AŞ and the Rail Systems Department about escalators and elevators should be provided, according to the investigation, and the required information and documents should be sent to the Inspection Board. In response, the Rail Systems Department sent a letter to the Inspection Board saying that, according to IBB Council decisions, “there was no other written correspondence or legal basis” prepared regarding the division of duties and responsibilities between IBB and Metro Istanbul AŞ, aside from the Duties and Work Regulations.