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What Is Canal Istanbul Project?

  • 02 January 2023

Canal Istanbul is a proposed artificial sea-level waterway that would connect the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara in Turkey. The canal would be approximately 45 kilometers long and approximately 500 meters wide, and would pass through the city of Istanbul. The project has been controversial, with proponents arguing that it would create jobs, boost the economy, and reduce shipping traffic in the crowded Bosphorus Strait, while opponents argue that it would be environmentally harmful and could lead to the destruction of important cultural and natural sites.

The idea of building a canal in Istanbul dates back to the Ottoman Empire, but it was first seriously proposed in the early 20th century. However, the project has faced numerous delays and setbacks over the years, and it has yet to be fully realized.

One of the main arguments in favor of Canal Istanbul is the potential economic benefits it could bring. The canal would provide a new shipping route, which could reduce traffic in the Bosphorus Strait, which is currently one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world. This could make shipping more efficient and potentially lower costs for businesses. The project is also expected to create hundreds of thousands of jobs during construction and once completed, and could boost the local economy.

However, there are also many concerns about the environmental impact of the canal. The project could potentially harm the natural habitats of various plant and animal species, and could lead to the destruction of important cultural and natural sites. There are also concerns about the potential for water pollution and soil erosion.

Despite these concerns, the Turkish government has pushed forward with the project, and it is currently in the planning and design phase. It is unclear when, or if, construction on Canal Istanbul will begin.