Elbe River Navigation Suspended Indefinitely Due to Movement at Carola Bridge
Dresden, Germany – After a three-week period of restricted navigation on the Elbe River in Dresden, waterway authorities have indefinitely suspended all vessel movement under the Carola Bridge.
"Since this morning, passage under the Carola Bridge has been completely closed again," said Helko Fröhner, Deputy Director of the Elbe Waterways and Shipping Office in Dresden, to the German Press Agency (DPA).
The decision to halt navigation stems from readings from a monitoring system installed on the partially collapsed bridge, which indicated movement within the structure.
Background
On December 24, 2022, a section of the Carola Bridge, a historic sandstone arch bridge built in 1893, collapsed into the Elbe River, leaving a 40-meter (131-foot) gap in the bridge deck. The cause of the collapse is still under investigation.
Following the collapse, the Elbe River was closed to all navigation traffic in the vicinity of the bridge. After extensive inspections and the installation of the monitoring system, limited navigation was allowed to resume on January 18, 2023, subject to restrictions.
Current Situation
The readings from the monitoring system have raised concerns about the stability of the remaining bridge structure. As a precautionary measure, all navigation under the Carola Bridge has been suspended until further notice.
"The safety of river traffic and the integrity of the bridge are our top priorities," said Fröhner. "Until we can fully assess the situation and determine the cause of the movement, we cannot allow vessels to pass under the bridge."
Impact on Shipping
The indefinite suspension of navigation under the Carola Bridge is expected to have a significant impact on inland waterway traffic on the Elbe River. The bridge is a major thoroughfare for commercial vessels, including cargo ships and passenger boats.
Alternative routes for vessels may be available, but they will likely increase travel times and operating costs. Authorities are working on contingency plans to mitigate the disruption to shipping.
Structural Assessment
Engineers are currently conducting a thorough assessment of the bridge structure to determine the cause of the movement. The investigation will include analyzing data from the monitoring system, conducting visual inspections, and performing structural tests.
The results of the assessment are expected to inform decisions on the future of the Carola Bridge, including whether it can be repaired or must be rebuilt.
Timeline
The timeline for the structural assessment and the reopening of the bridge to navigation is uncertain. Authorities are urging patience and understanding from all affected parties.
"We are committed to ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the Elbe River and the Carola Bridge," said Fröhner. "We will provide updates as the situation develops."
