Challange between Renewing of Urban Infrastructure and Sociological Impact of Urban Transformation in Istanbul

A Case Study of Fikirtepe

Urban Transformation in Fikirtepe

In the bustling city of Istanbul, urban transformation has become a topic of intense debate, particularly in areas like Fikirtepe, which has been at the center of a major three-year building project. This process, often referred to as “gentrification,” has profound social and psychological effects on the residents, a subject extensively covered in a Daily Sabah article.

Fikirtepe, once a skilled-working-class neighborhood, is undergoing a dramatic change with the construction of luxury high-rise towers, replacing more than 6,300 houses, of which only 3.2 percent were deemed earthquake resistant. This transformation has sparked a debate about the social implications of such urban transformation in Istanbul projects.

The Social Impact of Gentrification

Residents like Beysim A., a 45-year-old local, express a sense of loss, not just in terms of physical structures but also in the erosion of community bonds and neighborhood character. The financial benefits, although significant, do not seem to compensate for the loss of a familiar way of life and community spirit.

Metin E., another long-time resident, highlights the personal conflicts that arise from such transformations. The increase in land value has led to disputes within his family, reflecting a broader trend where financial gains are overshadowed by social and familial discord.

Role of Foundations and Associations

The Fikirtepe Social Solidarity Association, led by Ercüment Oruç, was established to protect landowners from exploitation by real estate firms, often referred to as “double-dealers.” This highlights the vulnerability of residents in the face of rapid urban transformation in Istanbul..

The president of TOKİ, Mehmet Ergün Turan, emphasizes the necessity of urban renewal in Turkey, citing the risks posed by old, worn-out buildings. This perspective is crucial, considering the threat these structures pose to the safety and well-being of residents.

Burhan Özdemir, a contractor and chairman of MÜSIAD’s Construction Sector Commission, points out the social dynamics at play. The original residents, mostly immigrants from Anatolian cities, and their well-educated, urbanized children represent a generational divide in attitudes towards living in these transformed neighborhoods.

Challenges and Risks of Urban Transformation in Istanbul

However, this urban transformation in Istanbul is not without its challenges. Investors, unfortunately, often face time and financial losses due to project flaws and delays in obtaining occupancy permits. This situation adds to the complexity of urban transformation in Istanbul, leading to a scenario where the benefits of such transformations are questioned.

Moreover, there is an urgent need for residents to move beyond emotional responses and recognize the reality of earthquake risks. The emotional attachment to old neighborhoods and the reluctance to embrace change, while understandable, must be weighed against the pressing need for safer, more resilient infrastructure.

The Future of Urban Transformation in Turkey

The ruling Justice and Development Party’s ambitious goal to oversee $400 billion worth of urban transformation in Turkey by 2023 underscores the scale of this endeavor. While the need for urban renovation, particularly for earthquake safety and infrastructure renewal, is undeniable, the emotional and social impacts on residents cannot be overlooked.

While the physical transformation of neighborhoods like Fikirtepe is essential for safety and modernization, it is equally important to address the sociological aspects. The emotional ties of residents to their communities, the disruption of social networks, and the impact on family dynamics are critical factors that need consideration. As Istanbul continues to evolve, finding a balance between necessary urban renewal and preserving the social fabric of communities remains a significant challenge.

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