A section of the Carola Bridge in Dresden partially collapsed into the Elbe River during the night. No casualties were reported as no tram was on the bridge at the time of the incident.
Around 3 AM on September 11, a portion of the Carola Bridge in Dresden partially collapsed into the Elbe River. A spokesperson from the situation center reported that the collapse affected the pedestrian and bicycle path, as well as the tram tracks. The Dresden Fire Department stated that approximately 100 meters of the bridge were involved in the collapse.
A significant hot water leak was observed coming from the bridge pier on the Old Town side.
Ongoing risk of further collapse
The fire department continues to warn of an acute risk of further collapse. “We expect that more parts of the bridge could collapse,” a fire department spokesperson said. They urged people to stay away from the bridge, emphasizing that there is a danger to life on and around the structure. Currently, a drone unit is being used to assess the extent of the damage.
Following the partial collapse, the district heating supply in the Saxon capital has been disrupted. Two district heating pipes were damaged, causing hot water to leak out. A fire department spokesperson stated that the outage could last throughout the day, with the operator working “at full speed” to resolve the issue.
Traffic chaos expected
The Dresden Transport Company reported that no tram was on the bridge at the time of the collapse, so no passengers or vehicles were harmed. Tram lines 3, 7, and 8 are being rerouted. On weekdays, lines 3 and 7 typically operate hourly, even at night.
The fire department warns that the partial collapse has eliminated a major traffic artery. While detours have been set up, a spokesperson advised that drivers and other road users should expect chaos during rush hour. In addition to the bridge, surrounding streets and paths passing under the bridge have been closed. Ship traffic has also been halted in the area.
