Bridge Collapse in Dresden Causes Major Disruptions

A large section of the Carola Bridge in Dresden collapsed early Wednesday morning, causing major disruptions across the city. Fortunately, no one was injured, though authorities warn that further sections of the bridge could still fall. Here is all about the Bridge Collapse in Dresden Causes Major Disruptions.

Bridge Collapse Details

A 100-meter portion of the Carola Bridge, which connects Dresden’s historic old town to other parts of the city, collapsed into the Elbe River. The collapse occurred just minutes after the last tram crossed the bridge at 2:50 am. According to Michael Klahre, a fire brigade spokesman, “There is still an acute danger to life and risk of collapse,” urging residents to stay away from the area.

Police stationed nearby reported hearing a loud noise and feeling the ground shake. Rescue teams and experts quickly arrived at the scene to assess the damage and secure the surrounding area.

Investigation and Possible Causes

While investigations are ongoing, authorities believe that chloride contamination may have corroded the bridge’s concrete structure. However, Holger Kalbe, head of Dresden’s civil engineering department, stated that this is just an initial assumption, and experts will need more time to determine the exact cause.

The collapsed section of the bridge was primarily used for tram lines, foot traffic, and cyclists, while the two other sections—dedicated to road vehicles—had already been renovated. The collapsed part was due for maintenance next year.

The collapse also damaged two major heating pipes, cutting off district heating for residents in parts of the city.

Traffic and Infrastructure Disruptions

The collapse has caused significant traffic disruptions, with road closures and diversions in place. The B170 federal road has been closed in both directions, and tram services have been rerouted:

• • Line 3 is being diverted between Neustadt station (Hansastr.) and Walpurgisstraße via Anton-/Leipziger Str., Neustädter Markt, and Postplatz.
  • Line 7 is being diverted between Albertplatz and Walpurgisstraße via Neustadt station, Congress Center, and Postplatz.
  • Line 8 is being diverted between Albertplatz and Neustädter Markt via Neustadt station and Anton-/Leipziger Str.

The entire area around the bridge, including the Elbe waterway and nearby cycling paths, remains closed until further notice.

Historical Significance of the Bridge

The Carola Bridge, named after the wife of King Albert of Saxony, is one of Dresden’s main crossings over the Elbe River. It was originally completed in 1895 but was destroyed during World War II to delay the Soviet Army’s advance. Reconstruction began in 1967, and the current bridge was completed in 1971. The bridge has undergone several renovations, most recently between 2019 and 2021.

The incident has renewed concerns over the safety of Germany’s bridges, many of which were built decades ago. With around 130,000 bridges nationwide, experts have long raised the need for more investment in maintenance and modernization.

Public Safety Measures

Authorities are treating the collapse as an accident and have urged the public not to spread false information about the incident. On social media platform X, Saxony state police emphasized that there is no evidence of third-party interference.

Until further investigations are completed and repairs made, the area surrounding the Carola Bridge will remain off-limits, and residents are advised to follow official traffic diversion guidelines.

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