Minister Kurum Discusses ‘Half of Us’ Campaign on CNN Turk
Minister Institution Launches “Half of Us” Campaign for Urban Transformation in Istanbul
The Minister Institution recently announced the launch of a new campaign in Istanbul aimed at transforming the city’s old and risky buildings. The “Half of Us” campaign is part of a larger 100-year transformation plan and has already received over 91 thousand applications from independent property owners in the city.
The campaign aims to address the problem of risky buildings in Istanbul, with over 1.5 million residences currently considered at risk. Through the campaign, the government hopes to transform 300 thousand houses on-site and create satellite cities to provide alternative housing solutions for residents. TOKİ will be responsible for the construction and completion of these transformations, with the government covering half of the cost.
To qualify for the transformation, property owners living in a building must have a 2/3 majority and apply through liaison offices or e-government. The priority will be given to buildings that are deemed risky. If residents consent, the transformation will be carried out on the spot. The application process is free and will be open until May 29.
The government will also provide a monthly rental allowance of 5,250 liras and a relocation assistance of 10,500 liras to those who are affected by the transformations until their new homes are ready. In addition, the “Half of Us” campaign will expand to cover seven other regions throughout Turkey.
It is expected that the construction for the transformed houses will be completed within two years, with the first ones to agree starting immediately. The government is giving a down payment of 75 thousand liras and allowing installments of 5,625 lira per month for ten years.
The Minister Institution hopes to make Istanbul resilient and transform 1.5 million residences within the next five years. The “Half of Us” campaign is a major step towards achieving that goal, with the government taking responsibility and providing support for the most vulnerable citizens who are affected by this transformation.
