In a much-anticipated second for historical past fans and commuters alike, the long-awaited pedestrian crossing between Sirkeci and Yedikule within the coronary heart of Istanbul has formally opened for pedestrian site visitors.
This vital occasion marks a outstanding return to its unique goal after 151 years, with the 7-kilometer observe now serving each pedestrians and trains, albeit individually.
This venture permits pedestrians to traverse the historic rail line utilizing bicycles and scooters, respiration new life right into a route initially launched in 1872.
For the primary time in its storied historical past, the observe is being opened completely for pedestrian use.
The development of the primary railway observe started in 1869, designed to attach Istanbul to Europe. The visionary venture outlined a route from Istanbul by way of Edirne, Thessaloniki, Plovdiv, Sofia, Niš, and in the end reaching Vienna. Notably, Grand Vizier Mehmet Rüştü Pasha expressed reservations in regards to the line passing by way of the gardens of the Topkapı Palace, fearing injury to the historic environment.
However, Sultan Abdulaziz was firm in his dedication to the venture. In 1872, the route was accomplished, and a station was established in Sirkeci, marking the inception of this important hyperlink.
This railway line turned the gateway of the Ottoman Empire to Europe, serving because the linchpin of transportation to the Balkans and past. It famously accommodated the Orient Express, which related Istanbul to the center of Europe.
Agatha Christie herself journeyed to Istanbul by way of this line and located inspiration for her tales within the bustling neighborhood of Pera. The line facilitated army dispatches and witnessed waves of visits and immigration to Istanbul. It turned an emblem for expatriates departing for Germany, impressed ballads and poems, and even turned an integral a part of Turkish cinema.
However, the route’s operation ceased in 2013 with the graduation of the Marmaray venture. Now, the General Directorate of Infrastructure Investments throughout the Ministry of Transport is embarking on the journey to reopen this historic route. On the 7.3-kilometer observe, one rail line will host trains with the opposite welcoming pedestrians. Bicycles and scooters may also be permitted on the pedestrian aspect.
Beginning from Sirkeci, pedestrians can embark on a nostalgic journey by way of historic landscapes, concluding their stroll at Yedikule. The two-year venture has concerned the removing of rail tracks on the pedestrian aspect and the institution of walkways. Stations, underpasses, overpasses, and new platforms have been meticulously renovated. A portion of the road will even characteristic an exhibition showcasing scenes from basic Yeşilçam – golden age movies.
The ongoing venture, often known as the “Kazılçeşme – Sirkeci Urban Transportation and Recreation Oriented Transformation Project,” is slated for completion by the tip of this yr. This improvement may also allow trains from Europe to achieve Sirkeci. Instead of standard passenger trains, “Sightseeing Trains” designed to supply passengers a wide ranging exterior view shall be launched on this route.
Yalçın Eyigün, General Manager of Infrastructure Investments, visited the location. “We have prepared the infrastructure to accommodate international trains coming from Europe and intercity trains at Sirkeci. Picture a train arriving from Paris on one side of the line while an Istanbulite strolls from Yedikule to Sirkeci on the other. Not only this, we will also introduce ‘glass excursion trains’ inspired by the Alpine landscape,” she mentioned.
Source: www.dailysabah.com
