By 2028, Turkey's £2.8 billion underwater tunnel connecting Europe and Asia will transform trade, transport, and traffic in Istanbul.

In an effort to strengthen its own economy, Turkey is spending billions of pounds modernizing its transportation system. The Great Istanbul Tunnel is a significant project that began building last year. The transportation connection will connect Istanbul's Asian and European districts and span 6.5 km (4 miles) beneath the Bosphorus.

The tunnel is anticipated to open to the public in 2028 and will cost an estimated £2.8 billion. An estimated 1.3 million people will use the tunnel every day once it is fully functioning. The tunnel, which will be 18.8 meters in diameter and 110 meters below sea level, can carry both automobiles and trains. According to the latest designs, it will be divided into three decks, with two for automobiles and one for trains. Trains will have a peak speed of 160 km/h, while cars will be able to reach 120 km/h in the tunnel.

Istanbul Atatürk Airport, Sabiha Gökçen Airport, and Istanbul Airport will all have highway connections thanks to the tunnel. Thirteen stations will make up the railway portion, which can handle 70,000 people per hour. The Metrobus line, an essential component of Istanbul's transportation network, will be able to operate at full capacity thanks to its connections with 11 more trains. The tunnel's construction is considered a strategic undertaking of major economic and social significance.

Economically, it is anticipated that the tunnel will improve travel and trade between Asia and Europe. Additionally, it will boost Turkey's economy and generate new job possibilities.

Socially, the tunnel will lessen Istanbul's traffic jams, which will enhance city dwellers' quality of life and lessen pollution in the environment. According to ministers, it will be the longest underwater tunnel in the world. The Fehmarnbelt tunnel, which will connect Germany and Denmark, is presently being built and is expected to be finished in 2029. It is 18 kilometers (11 miles) long.