During the opening ceremony, Erdoğan emphasized the project's multifaceted benefits, stating: "This is not just a rail system, but an exceptionally modern transportation project with features for tourism, sports, cycling, and other areas." He highlighted the project's contribution to the city's growing rail network, bringing the total length to 340 kilometers.
Erdoğan outlined ambitious plans for further expansion, aiming to reach a total length of 650 kilometers within five years and ultimately exceeding 1,000 kilometers. He emphasized the dual purpose of these infrastructure projects: "In addition to these, with new projects in environment and urbanization, particularly urban transformation, we will not only make Istanbul earthquake-resistant, but also further beautify it." He stressed the urgency of renewing the city's building stock in preparation for potential earthquakes.
The inauguration of the Sirkeci-Kazlıçeşme railway and the President's vision for future developments signal a continued focus on modernizing Istanbul's infrastructure while preserving its aesthetic appeal and ensuring its resilience against natural disasters. (ILKHA)