Istanbul is considered one of the most vibrant and lively cities in the world, thriving with its commercial, touristic, real estate, and urban development activities. To meet the growing needs of its residents and visitors, Istanbul has witnessed a series of large-scale projects aimed at improving its infrastructure.
Improving Transportation and Urban Development :
Istanbul, being a global commercial and tourist hub, constantly requires the development of its infrastructure and enhancement of its transportation services. In this context, the city is witnessing the implementation of a series of large-scale projects aimed at improving and modernizing transportation networks, reducing traffic congestion, and providing fast and reliable transportation means for residents and visitors. Some of the key projects include :
- The New Istanbul Airport Project :
The New Istanbul Airport is one of the largest and most massive infrastructure projects in the world, representing a remarkable engineering and technological achievement aimed at enhancing and modernizing air transport in Turkey and elevating aviation services. Officially opened in 2018, the airport is located on a vast area of approximately 76.5 million square meters in the Arnavutkoy area on the European side of Istanbul. The airport features a modern design and advanced infrastructure that meets the highest international aviation and safety standards, making it the world's largest airport in terms of capacity, capable of accommodating over 200 million passengers annually over time. The airport provides a distinctive travel experience for passengers, with high-quality facilities and services including shops, restaurants, lounges, hotels, and more. Additionally, the airport offers entertainment and leisure facilities for travelers and visitors.
- The Third Istanbul Bridge Project :
The construction of the Third Istanbul Bridge aims to alleviate the severe traffic congestion on the two Bosphorus bridges and other transportation routes between the continents. Connecting the "Göztepe" area in the European continent with the "Bostancı" area in the Asian continent facilitates and speeds up traffic flow significantly, enhancing transportation greatly. The Third Istanbul Bridge stands out with its unique design and high aesthetics, stretching for about 2,164 meters with a width of up to 59 meters. Its massive vertical towers and suspended cables add a special charm, making it a tourist attraction for the city and a hub for real estate investment in the nearby areas.
- The Great Istanbul Tunnel Project :
The third tunnel under the Bosphorus is the world's first three-deck tunnel under both land and water, although not the first tunnel passing under the Bosphorus. There are two other tunnels passing under the Bosphorus as well, shortening time and distances. The first one is the Marmaray Tunnel, where excavation works began in 2004 and was opened in 2013, and the second one is the Eurasia Tunnel, the first dedicated car tunnel with two levels under the sea in the world, which was opened at the end of 2016.
The Istanbul Metro Project is one of the largest and most important infrastructure projects in the city. It aims to develop and modernize the subway network, improve passenger transportation, and alleviate traffic congestion. The project is being implemented in multiple phases, including an integrated system of electric trains, stations, and railway lines that extend across various areas of Istanbul. The Istanbul Metro is characterized by modernity and good organization, providing easy access and transfer between trains through loading and unloading platforms. The trains also feature comfortable facilities for passengers such as spacious seats, proper ventilation systems, and informational display screens announcing upcoming stations. The project includes numerous lines connecting key areas of the city, along with new lines set to open in 2024, linking the entire city and meeting the increasing demand for public transportation to enhance the travelers' experience.
The Istanbul Canal is a unique engineering masterpiece aimed at reducing pressure on the Bosphorus Strait and facilitating ship traffic. The canal is approximately 45 kilometers long and 275 meters wide at its base, with a depth ranging from 20-25 meters. The canal will allow large ships, tankers, and cargo vessels to pass through instead of crossing the Bosphorus Sea, expected to reduce traffic congestion in the strait and improve ship and maritime transport in the area. Additionally, the canal's sides will witness giant residential and commercial projects, making the surrounding lands alongside the canal promising investment opportunities.
- Road and Tunnel Improvement Project :
The Road and Tunnel Improvement Project includes various initiatives such as road expansion, enhancing residential areas, developing public transportation systems, constructing tunnels, and bridges. The project aims to reduce traffic congestion, improve traffic flow in the city, and provide convenient and fast transportation means for the public. One of the main components of the Road and Tunnel Improvement Project is the construction of new tunnels and passages, which provide dedicated lanes for vehicles and pedestrians, easing traffic congestion. Additionally, the project involves expanding current roads, enhancing traffic signals, and equipping road-surrounding areas with necessary infrastructure. The Road and Tunnel Improvement Project is a significant addition to enhancing the infrastructure in Istanbul, working towards improving mobility and transportation for residents and travelers, facilitating car and public transport movement. Thanks to this project, Istanbul becomes more attractive to investors, promotes tourism in Turkey, and realizes aspirations for a prosperous, organized, and more comfortable future for everyone.
- The Ports and Maritime Facilities Development Project :
Istanbul occupies a crucial strategic location as a maritime trade center, with its ports and maritime facilities playing a vital role in enhancing its local economy and regional influence. Therefore, the Turkish government places significant emphasis on developing these ports and facilities and improving the associated infrastructure. Development projects include expanding and enhancing existing ports, as well as constructing new ports to increase operational capacity and accommodate more ships and cargo. Improvements are made to docks, storage areas, equipment, and technology to provide better and more efficient services for ships and shipments. Additionally, maritime facilities are being developed to enhance maritime transportation services and facilitate access to islands and coastal areas. This involves enhancing navigational routes, navigation, and updating logistic facilities to meet advanced shipping and maritime transportation needs. This development will contribute to achieving several objectives, such as attracting more ships and cargo, thus enticing more maritime companies and boosting international trade. It will also improve the local economy by creating new job opportunities and increasing revenues, while enhancing Istanbul's status as a maritime center, making it a focal point for tourism, trade, and investment.
Other infrastructure projects in Istanbul serving various aspects of life :
In addition to transportation projects and city development in Istanbul, there are many other projects contributing to improving life and the city's infrastructure. These projects in Istanbul work on enhancing the quality of life for citizens and residents, providing a better living environment in one of the most beautiful and largest cities in the world. These projects include :
- Water and sanitation improvements : The development and enhancement of water and sanitation networks aim to ensure the provision of sustainable and clean services to the population. These projects involve updating old infrastructure, expanding networks to cover new areas, and improving water usage efficiency. Additionally, projects are implemented to treat sewage water and reuse it for irrigating gardens and green areas.
- Housing Projects : Large residential projects have been implemented to provide housing for both citizens and foreigners, meeting the increasing housing needs in the city. These projects include constructing new housing units, renovating old buildings, and providing affordable housing for citizens with limited income. Additionally, projects are carried out to develop residential areas and enhance the quality of life within them.
- Environmental Projects : Projects are implemented to preserve the environment, improve air and water quality, and maintain parks and green areas in the city. These projects include establishing wastewater treatment plants, promoting the use of public transportation, and expanding green spaces in the city. Additionally, projects are carried out to increase environmental awareness among residents and encourage them to adopt eco-friendly behaviors.
- Renewable Energy Projects : Projects have been implemented to utilize renewable energy such as solar and wind power to enhance environmental sustainability. These projects involve installing solar panels on building roofs and establishing wind farms in the outskirts of the city. Additionally, projects are underway to develop renewable energy technologies and improve their efficiency.
- Cultural and Entertainment Projects : Projects have been implemented to develop museums, theaters, commercial centers, and entertainment areas to enhance the cultural and social life in the city. These projects include the restoration of historical buildings, establishment of new museums, and the development of cultural and entertainment centers. Additionally, projects are carried out to organize various cultural and entertainment events in the city.
The benefits and advantages brought by infrastructure improvement projects :
Infrastructure improvement projects lead to enhancing the quality of life for residents by providing more efficient transportation means, improving sanitation and clean water services, reducing environmental pollution. Additionally, these projects contribute to boosting the local economy by attracting more investments, creating new job opportunities, and enhancing the business environment. Furthermore, infrastructure improvement projects lead to the development of tourism in Istanbul by facilitating access to the city, improving tourist infrastructure, and providing a better experience for tourists.
A strategic vision for a flourishing future :
Infrastructure improvement projects in Istanbul are part of a comprehensive strategic vision aimed at making Istanbul a more developed and comfortable city, fulfilling its aspirations to become one of the largest and most advanced cities in the world. This vision focuses on enhancing the quality of life for its residents, boosting the local economy, developing tourism, and achieving sustainable development. Istanbul has the potential to become a role model for other cities worldwide, positioning it as one of the top countries globally for real estate investment.
02-04-2024 
