Partial collapse of major bridge in Dresden, plunging into river

The Carola Bridge in Dresden, Germany has partially collapsed, causing major disruptions to traffic and leaving the city without hot water. The emergency closure of the bridge, which is a key route between the Old Town and New Town, has impacted the tram system, boat traffic, motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists. Mayor Dirk Hilbert emphasized the importance of restoring the bridge, calling it the “lifeline” of the city. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the collapse. The incident has also disrupted the city’s hot water supply as two district heating pipes burst during the collapse. The bridge was scheduled for renovation next year, and city officials are now investigating the cause of the collapse. The collapse is being treated as an accident, with corrosion caused by chloride being considered as a potential cause. This incident highlights the importance of maintaining infrastructure and conducting regular inspections to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of residents. City officials and emergency responders are working to address the situation and restore normalcy to the affected areas.

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