Istanbul's Metro Expansion Reaches 380.7 km, Residents Share Impact

Istanbul Büyükşehir Belediyesi reports that its Raylı Sistem Atılımı has brought total rail line length to 380.7 km. Residents across the city describe shorter journeys and more reliable service on routes that now connect more districts than before.

Daily travel changes for commuters

People who use the network for work and school say the added kilometres reduce time spent in traffic. The buildout since 2019 has added lines at an average pace of 13.7 km per year, a rate residents link to noticeable improvements in getting between home and workplaces or universities. Families mention that the Anne Kart program, now used by more than 850,000 mothers, and the 96 million TL in student support have made regular trips more affordable for many households.

Safety and staffing shifts noted by riders

Users point to the presence of more than 60,000 cameras on vehicles and over 117,000 annual inspections as reasons they feel more secure during evening travel. Women who work in the system or ride it regularly observe that female employment in transport roles has risen by 70 percent and that the number of women driving metro trains at Metro İstanbul has grown 38 times, changes they describe as making the environment more inclusive on platforms and in control rooms.

Next steps for the network

Further extensions already under way are expected to bring the total length to 398.1 km. Residents say continued additions will help connect additional neighbourhoods and support the city's shift toward rail-based movement. The İBB announcement frames the work as part of a broader plan for equitable and greener transport options.