Istanbul, June 21 – The Halkalı-Arnavutköy metro line, inaugurated by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on Friday, June 19, served 10,021 passengers on its first full day of operation. This announcement was made by Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, highlighting the immediate impact of the new line on Istanbul’s urban transportation.
New Metro Line Boosts Istanbul’s Transport Capacity
Minister Uraloğlu issued a written statement regarding the Halkalı-Arnavutköy Metro Line, which commenced passenger services on Saturday, June 20. He stated, “Turkey’s newest metro line, Halkalı-Arnavutköy, served 10,021 passengers on its first day of operation. On the same day, our entire Gayrettepe-Istanbul Airport-Halkalı Metro Line was used by 44,109 people.”
Completion of a 69-Kilometer Ring Line
Uraloğlu emphasized that the Halkalı-Arnavutköy Line, which integrates with the Gayrettepe-Istanbul Airport-Arnavutköy Line from the Arnavutköy Hospital station, represents the final segment of the 69-kilometer Gayrettepe-Istanbul Airport-Halkalı Metro, comprising 16 stations. With the completion of this section, Turkey now boasts the longest and fastest underground metro line, which is also one of the longest in the world, forming a 69-kilometer ring.
The Minister also noted that five new stations have been put into service within the 22-kilometer Halkalı-Arnavutköy line. “Within this scope, we have opened the Ibn Haldun University, Kayaşehir, Olimpiyatköy, Halkalı Stadium, and Halkalı Stations between Halkalı and Arnavutköy,” Uraloğlu stated. He added, “To date, the 47-kilometer section between Gayrettepe-Istanbul Airport-Arnavutköy has transported approximately 33 million passengers, more than twice Istanbul’s population, with an average of 37,500 passengers daily. Thanks to the five stations we have put into service, approximately 1.5 million Istanbul residents living in Başakşehir and Küçükçekmece can now travel directly between Halkalı and Gayrettepe.”
Positive Impact on Commuters and Urban Development
The new metro line is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and reduce travel times for residents in the Başakşehir and Küçükçekmece districts, providing a direct and efficient link to the city center and Istanbul Airport. This expansion of the metro network aligns with Istanbul’s ongoing efforts to enhance its public transportation infrastructure and promote sustainable urban mobility.
The integration of the Halkalı-Arnavutköy line into the broader metro network creates a comprehensive system that connects key residential areas with major transportation hubs and commercial centers. This strategic development is anticipated to stimulate economic activity and improve the quality of life for millions of Istanbulites.
Future Prospects and Continued Investment
The successful launch of the Halkalı-Arnavutköy metro line underscores the Turkish government’s commitment to investing in large-scale infrastructure projects. These projects aim to modernize the country’s transportation systems and support its growing urban populations. Further expansions and improvements to Istanbul’s public transport network are expected in the coming years, as the city continues to grow and evolve.
The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure remains dedicated to developing advanced transportation solutions that cater to the needs of Istanbul’s dynamic and expanding populace. The focus on high-speed and efficient metro lines is a testament to this commitment, promising a more connected and accessible city for all its residents.
