Turkey is undergoing a major transformation in its transportation infrastructure. Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu stated in his statements that 2024 is a significant turning point in the transportation sector. This year, Turkey has implemented a number of important projects in all modes of transportation and is making its transportation network more modern and sustainable with high-speed train projects and railway connections. Minister Uraloğlu gave details about current projects and emphasized that the transformation in the country's transportation infrastructure is ongoing.
Bandırma-Bursa-Yenişehir-Osmaneli High Speed Train Project and Other Ongoing High Speed Train Lines
Uraloğlu stated that Turkey's railway projects are developing rapidly. He stated that the Bandırma-Bursa-Yenişehir-Osmaneli high-speed train project is among these. This project aims to connect the Marmara Region with high-speed trains and will significantly shorten transportation times. At the same time, the construction of this line, which will provide an important connection in Turkey's railway network, will contribute to the development of regional transportation.
Minister Uraloğlu also reported that other high-speed train projects are ongoing. Ankara-İzmir, Mersin-Adana-Osmaniye-Gaziantep and Halkalı-Projects such as Kapıkule are also progressing rapidly. These projects contribute to the modernization of Turkey's transportation infrastructure while also offering environmentally friendly and sustainable transportation solutions. As of 2024, these projects have gained significant momentum.
Kırıkkale-Çorum High Speed Train Line and Super Fast Train Project
Uraloğlu also stated that the tender for the Kırıkkale-Çorum high-speed train line has been made and that this line will start to be built in a short time. This line is expected to strengthen the railway network of the Central Anatolia Region and make transportation more efficient.
Another important project is the Ankara-Istanbul super-fast train line. Uraloğlu said that this line was designed to travel at a speed of 350 kilometers per hour and will be approximately 344 kilometers long. With the construction of this line, the travel time between the two major cities will be significantly shortened. The minister stated that the super-fast train line will be completed within a 10-year projection.
Marmaray and Railway Connections
Uraloğlu emphasized that Marmaray has become an important project in terms of Turkey's railway connections. Marmaray, as the most important railway line connecting Asia and Europe, hosts 300 train movements every day. Traveled by 730 thousand people daily, Marmaray is an important turning point in Turkey's railway transportation.
The Minister also said that railway connections to Europe via Marmaray have been strengthened. He stated that the new railway line, which will be connected to the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge, will connect two airports and feasibility studies for the construction of a high-capacity line operating at a speed of 200 kilometers per hour have been completed. The construction of this line will increase Turkey's railway capacity and offer new alternative routes.
Development Path and International Connections
Minister Uraloğlu stated that Turkey has an important place in the Middle Corridor and that the railway starting from Iraq's Fav Port is on the route that will connect to Europe. This project will be an important step towards increasing Turkey's foreign trade and strengthening regional transportation connections.
The Development Road is an important project that will increase Turkey's international transportation capacity. This project is a major transportation project carried out jointly by Iraq, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Turkey, and includes both railway and road lines. The first phase, which will be put into operation at the end of the year, will further strengthen Turkey's international logistics network.
Airport Development Projects
Uraloğlu stated that there are 58 airports in Turkey and that Yozgat and Bayburt-Gümüşhane airports will be completed in 2026. These airports are expected to increase transportation opportunities, especially in rural areas, and contribute to economic development.
The Minister also stated that the number of Turkey's international flights has reached 349 destinations and that they are the country that flies to the most destinations in the world. Turkey plays an important role in global air transportation with 175 countries with which it has aviation agreements.
Cyber Security and Communication Infrastructure
Uraloğlu stated that important steps have been taken to strengthen Turkey's digital infrastructure. The Information Technologies and Communication Authority (BTK) manages Turkey's communication traffic and also undertakes important duties in the field of cybersecurity. The establishment of the Cybersecurity Presidency and the measures taken in the field of cybersecurity will further strengthen the country's digital infrastructure.
Social Media Regulations and Youth Safety
Minister Uraloğlu also provided important information about social media regulations. The regulations regarding the use of social media by young people under the age of 16 aim to protect the safety of children. These regulations are carried out in cooperation with the Ministries of Family and Social Services, Justice and Interior.
Transformation in Turkey's Transportation Infrastructure
The projects announced by Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu will significantly strengthen Turkey's transport infrastructure and increase the country's regional and international connections. High-speed train projects, railway connections, airports and digital infrastructure investments will best prepare Turkey for future transport needs and create an important foundation for sustainable growth.
