Bans on entering the sea, jumping from rocks, and alcohol consumption in Kocaeli Kandıra

In the Kandıra district, one of Kocaeli's important tourist centers, a large number of new restriction decisions have been taken to ensure citizen safety and maintain public order, covering the 2026 summer season. Prepared and put into effect by the "District Commission for the Prevention of Drowning Incidents" under the coordination of the Kocaeli Governorship and Kandıra District Governorship, these decisions aim to prevent people from entering the sea in dangerous areas where there are no lifeguard services. Planned in detail to minimize drowning incidents and prevent the disturbance of the peace in the environment, taking into account tourist activity in the region, these regulations will be implemented meticulously by local administrations and relevant institutions.

Within the scope of the decisions taken, entering the sea in bays that pose a risk to life safety and have rip current dangers has been completely banned. The areas where citizens can enter the sea are limited to Cebeci, Kovanağzı, Kerpe, Miço Kadınlar Plajı, Sarısu, Seyrek, Bağırganlı, and Kumcağız beaches, where lifeguards are constantly on duty and security measures are taken. Warning signs will be placed in risky areas by Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality, Kandıra Municipality, and Devlet Su İşleri (DSİ) teams to ensure the sustainability of these bans, and citizens are obliged to heed these warnings. This application is described as one of the most concrete and effective measures taken to prevent the recurrence of tragic incidents experienced in past years.

On the other hand, in order to prevent injuries and fatal accidents, jumping into the sea from rocks, which have become a natural attraction in the region but carry high risks, has also been strictly banned. Administrative sanctions will be applied against those jumping into the sea from cliffs and high points, such as Kartal Kayalıkları in Kerpe, Pembe Kayalıklar in Kefken, and Dikili Burnu (Harmankayalar) in Babalı. In addition to those jumping from these places, administrative fines will be imposed under the relevant articles of the Law No. 5326 on Misdemeanors on those who play music at disturbing volume and make noise on beaches, sands, picnic areas, and public transportation vehicles.

In addition to noise pollution, wide-ranging bans have been introduced to protect the environment and order and prevent forest fires. Lighting fires and barbecues in a way that threatens natural life and public order in beaches, sands, forests, and picnic areas are included in these bans, while consuming and selling alcoholic beverages in these areas is also prohibited. Furthermore, setting up tents or parking with caravans in any area other than licensed businesses or caravan parks designated and approved by the municipality is also prevented by new regulations.

Necessary administrative sanctions will be applied by the Coast Guard Command and Kandıra District Gendarmerie Command teams against citizens who do not comply with these determined bans and measures. In case of continuation of violations, stricter measures such as confiscation of musical devices and initiation of judicial proceedings will be initiated, not limited to fines. Local officials emphasize that these bans will not be lifted on their own, on the contrary, inspections will be carried out frequently throughout the season and those who do not comply will be punished, requesting the public to cooperate and abide by the rules.