Istanbul Rail Transit Ridership Changes: The Impact of Station Characteristics and Network Growth (2013–2023)

Metin ŞENBİL

doi:https://doi.org/10.69992/0.2025.11

Metin ŞENBİL, MOHAMMED BASIM BASRAWI

Year : 2025
Vol : 2
Issue : 1
Page : 65-87

DOI : https://doi.org/10.69992/0.2025.11

The expansion of Istanbul’s rail transit network from 2013 to 2023 has significantly reshaped the city's transportation landscape. This study explores how station characteristics and network growth have influenced changes in rail transit ridership over this period, offering valuable insights for urban planners and policymakers. By examining station location, line type, ridership levels, and opening dates, the research aims to uncover the key factors driving these shifts. The analysis focuses on five phases of network growth, using non-parametric statistical methods to assess the impact of these variables on ridership patterns. In this context, the study aims to define the relationship between station characteristics and ridership trends and highlight the main factors contributing to ridership changes. The findings reveal that station location played a critical role, with European-side stations initially experiencing higher ridership due to their proximity to economic hubs. However, as the network expanded into suburban areas, particularly on the Asian side, ridership growth in these stations accelerated, narrowing the gap. Additionally, the research explores the roles of metro, tram, and commuter rail lines, each contributing to distinct ridership behaviors due to their varying speeds, frequencies, and service areas. Notably, ridership demand levels revealed a widening disparity, with high-demand stations experiencing significant increases while low-demand stations stagnated. This phenomenon can likely be attributed to factors such as network expansion, urban development, and shifting travel patterns favoring heavily used stations. Newly opened stations also exhibited initial fluctuations in ridership, while older stations showed steady, moderate growth. The study concludes that understanding these factors is essential for optimizing future transportation planning in rapidly expanding cities like Istanbul. The insights from this research provide a framework for enhancing rail infrastructure, improving connectivity, and promoting sustainable urban mobility, with direct implications for planners, designers, and city officials.

Cite this Article As : Basrawi, M. & Şenbil, M. (2025). Istanbul rail transit ridership changes: the impact of station characteristics and network growth (2013–2023). Thinking of Urban Decoding Journal (TUDEJ), 2(1),65-87. https://doi.org/10.69992/0.2025.11

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Istanbul Rail Transit Ridership Changes: The Impact of Station Characteristics and Network Growth (2013–2023), Research Article,
2025, Vol. 2 (1)

Received : 18.10.2024, Accepted : 26.11.2024 , Published Online : 29.09.2025