Alghadeer TV Alghadeer TV
Senior citizens got the green light to leave their homes between 0800 GMT and 1200 GMT on Sunday, a period in which other age groups were under lockdown in 24 provinces, including Ankara and Istanbul.
Turkish people aged 65 and over on Sunday described their joy after the government allowed them to go outside for the first time in nearly two months in an easing of coronavirus restrictions.
While 24 provinces including Ankara and Istanbul are subject to a weekend lockdown, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said last week senior citizens could leave their homes between 0800 GMT and 1200 GMT on Sunday. They had not been permitted to go outside since March 21.
“The expected day has arrived. The city will again meet you…do not forget to put on a mask on this beautiful day…” Health Minister Fahrettin Koca tweeted, wishing them a good time:
While some went to parks for a jog, others walked around the streets, shopped, or met their friends and relatives.
“Finally it is like we are on holiday as of 11 o’clock (0800 GMT) today. We are very happy,” Istanbul resident Umit Avci, 81, said. “It’s the first time I’ve come outside since March and I’m so happy, I’m filled with joy,” Ankara resident Ayse said.
“I have not been out for about two months. Today I will get around, I will shop if I can,” Arif Erkan, 77, from the central Nigde province, said. Nazmiye Kilic, 78, who resides in the northwestern Kirklareli province, met her 80-year-old elder sister, Yurdanur Yastin, at a neighbourhood park.
