Istanbul’s Caferağa neighborhood has a longstanding reputation for its cultural richness and historic charm. Quaint cafes, restaurants and bars line the sidewalks. A thriving arts scene draws an eclectic crowd. More than 2.3 million visitors daily flock to the district in which Caferağa resides — but it’s overwhelming the neighborhood’s small community of 22,000 residents.

“The streets of Caferağa are struggling to bear the weight they carry,” said Hanife Dağıstanlı, the neighborhood chief. “The sidewalks are too narrow and often blocked, and people are forced to step into the road just to keep moving.” This overcrowding has made it hard for locals to navigate daily life, especially those who are older, have disabilities or are traveling with children or strollers. At the same time, heavy traffic contributes to Istanbul’s worsening air pollution and discourages people from using cleaner travel options, like biking.