Burial space shortage deepens in Istanbul as central cemeteries fill up
Istanbul, the sprawling megacity of more than 15 million residents, is grappling with a growing cemetery space shortage as its densely populated urban core runs out of burial capacity, local media reported on July 10.
More than 90 percent of burial plots in cemeteries across the city’s central districts have already been occupied, raising concerns over the long-term sustainability of Istanbul’s burial infrastructure.
While the Istanbul Municipality provides funeral services and burial plots free of charge at the time of death, families wishing to purchase grave plots in advance must pay a fee.
In some of the city’s most sought-after districts, including Beşiktaş and Sarıyer, the price of a pre-purchased burial plot can reach as high as 335,000 Turkish Liras (approximately $7,100).
