Controversial Renovation of Istanbul’s Taksim Square Has Begun
Julia Harte | November 13th, 2012 | 1 Comment | Email this
Despite all the criticism the plan received from urban planners, lawyers, activists, academics, and concerned citizens, the city has begun remodeling the central square, a focal point for transportation and protests.
In a preview of how the square will be isolated from the rest of the city after the renovation is finished, barriers have gone up separating Taksim Square from Cümhürriyet Avenue (at the top right of the photo), one of the Istanbul’s main arteries. Tunnels are being dug in the avenue. Construction started on Nov. 5 with no warning to anyone, leaving shopkeepers furious and traffic congested, according to the Turkish newspaper Hurriyet Daily News.
More:Controversial Renovation of Istanbul’s Taksim Square Has Begun | Green Prophet