The project was devised one year ago, and a report was issued to the ministries of transportation and public works and settlements by the İstanbul Metropolitan Municipality, the İstanbul Police Department and several other related institutions, approving the launch of the project.As one of the symbols of İstanbul, the bridge has proven its potential as a top tourist attraction. The bridge is known for the annual Eurasia Marathon, which offers a unique intercontinental experience by starting the race from the Anatolian side of the Bosporus Bridge through Taksim on the European side; for a short exhibition game to promote the Euro-Asia All Stars table tennis tournament; and for light and fireworks displays on special days.
However, the project aiming to use the bridge as another source of income has yet to be approved by the relevant ministries, mainly due to security concerns. Authorities from the ministries say the main drawback is suicide attempts. The bridge has been the scene of dozens of suicides and suicide attempts. A person committed suicide in the last Eurasia Marathon, held in October.
The project envisages the construction of two elevators, each having a 15-person capacity, to reach the bridge from the city’s Ortaköy neighborhood on the European side and a walking platform on the bridge to the Asian side of the city. The project also includes opening souvenir shops at both endpoints.
