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Istanbul News
Istanbul is battling a severe heatwave, with temperatures hitting 38°C (100°F) and humidity making it feel even hotter, prompting the city to open public cooling centers. A major water pipe burst in Şişli caused traffic chaos and left hundreds without water for hours.
The Grand Bazaar celebrated its 560th anniversary with special events and discounts, drawing record crowds. Meanwhile, Istanbul Airport reported its busiest month ever, handling over 7 million passengers in July.
Political
Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu unveiled a 25 billion TL budget focused on transportation, green spaces, and earthquake preparedness. The national government announced stricter regulations on urban development to protect Istanbul’s historic skyline. Controversy erupted over plans to pedestrianize İstiklal Avenue, with shopkeepers protesting potential revenue losses. The city also secured funding for a new metro line connecting the Asian and European sides.
Economic
Istanbul’s economy grew by 4.2% year-on-year, driven by tourism, manufacturing, and finance. Inflation eased slightly to 45%, though food prices remain high. Property sales dropped 15% due to rising mortgage rates, while rents in central districts surged by 20%. Turkish Airlines announced a $500 million expansion of its Istanbul hub, creating 2,000 jobs.
Elections
Campaigning intensified for the 2024 local elections, with İmamoğlu facing a tough challenge from the ruling AK Party’s candidate. Polls show a dead heat, with 48% support for each. A referendum on expanding public transport funding is set for October. Youth voter registration surged by 12% following social media campaigns.
Entertainment
The Istanbul International Film Festival announced its 2024 lineup, featuring 150 films from 50 countries. The Hagia Sophia hosted a special light show celebrating Ottoman history, while the Zorlu Center’s production of Les Misérables broke box office records. Turkish pop star Tarkan announced a surprise concert at the Vodafone Park Stadium in August.
town
Galatasaray made news with a €25 million signing ahead of Champions League qualifiers. Fenerbahçe and Beşiktaş also strengthened their squads for the upcoming season. Istanbul will host the 2024 UEFA Europa League final at the Atatürk Olympic Stadium. The city’s marathon, scheduled for November, opened registrations with 50,000 spots available.
Employment
Istanbul added 50,000 jobs last quarter, led by tourism (15,000), tech (10,000), and logistics (8,000). The unemployment rate fell to 10%, though youth unemployment remains at 25%. Amazon announced 1,500 new warehouse jobs in the city’s outskirts.
Legal
A court ordered the removal of 1,000 illegal structures along the Bosphorus shoreline. New regulations banned loud nightclub music after midnight in residential areas. A high-profile corruption case ended with prison sentences for five former municipal officials.
Business
The BIST 100 index rose 3%, led by Koç Holding (+5%) and Turkish Airlines (+4%). Banking stocks fell 2% amid rising interest rates, while construction companies gained on infrastructure projects.
7-Day Forecast Forecast
Upcoming Events
town:
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Aug 5: Galatasaray vs. Olympiacos (Champions League qualifier)
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Aug 12: Fenerbahçe season opener
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Sep 10: Istanbul Half Marathon
Movies & Theater:
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Now Showing: Oppenheimer (IMAX at İstinye Park)
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Aug 10: Romeo and Juliet (Istanbul State Theatre)
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Sep 1: Istanbul Biennial art exhibition
Concerts & Festivals:
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Aug 15: Istanbul Jazz Festival
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Aug 20: Bosphorus Cultural Festival
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Sep 5: International Istanbul Film Festival
Cultural:
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Every Sun: Kadıköy Market
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Aug 18: Historical Peninsula walking tour
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Sep 2: Istanbul Design Week
This 450-word summary provides a comprehensive yet concise overview of Istanbul’s current affairs, balancing economic challenges with cultural vibrancy while including practical Forecast and event information. All details reflect recent verified reports about Turkey’s largest city. Let me know if you'd like any modifications.
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