With the Presidential Decree published in the Official Gazette dated March 21, 2025, the responsibility for the construction and management of the Kazım Karabekir-Topağacı-Ümraniye Sports Village Rail System Line planned in Istanbul was taken from the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) and transferred to the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure.
Background and Importance of the Project
Kazım Karabekir-Topağacı-Ümraniye Sports Village Rail System Line is an important project that aims to facilitate transportation from densely populated areas of Istanbul to Kazım Karabekir and Bahçelievler districts. The project was first planned during Kadir Topbaş's term as the Mayor of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality and was aimed to be approximately 13 kilometers long. However, despite the 8 years that passed, the project could not be completed and the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure stepped in and undertook the construction.
Reason for Delegation of Authority
The fact that the project has not been completed for a long time and the increasing need for transportation in Istanbul are shown as the main reasons for the transfer of authority. The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure plans to accelerate the project and integrate it into Istanbul's rail system network, thereby relieving urban transportation. This step sets an example for the timely completion of other metro lines under construction in Istanbul.
The Role of the Ministry in Rail System Projects
The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure has previously undertaken and successfully completed various rail system projects in Istanbul. For example, four metro lines completed by the ministry were put into service in 2024. These projects brought the total rail system network of Istanbul to 348 kilometers. With this experience, the Ministry aims to effectively complete the Kazım Karabekir-Topağacı-Ümraniye Sports Village Rail System Line.
Future of the Project
Following the transfer of authority, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure is expected to complete the project quickly. In this way, the transportation network on the east side of Istanbul will expand and traffic density in the region will decrease. In addition, it is envisaged that with the completion of the line, economic and social activities in the region will be revitalized.
Details of the decision
– According to the decision, the Kazım Karabekir-Topağacı-Ümraniye Sports Village Rail System Line project will be undertaken by the Ministry.
– This change has been updated as subparagraph (3) of paragraph (a) of article 7 of the relevant decree.
– The decision entered into force as of March 20, 2025.
The transfer of the construction and management responsibility of the Kazım Karabekir-Topağacı-Ümraniye Sports Village Rail System Line to the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure is an important step towards strengthening Istanbul's transportation infrastructure. This decision aims to complete the project more quickly and effectively and to make it available to the people of Istanbul.
