Freihafenelbbrücke in Hamburg to be Partially Demolished Following Ship Collision
Hamburg, February 1 – A significant landmark in the Port of Hamburg, the Freihafenelbbrücke, is facing partial demolition. According to the Economic Authority, the central section of the bridge is beyond repair and must be removed for safety reasons. The decision comes after a ship collision in late October, when an inland vessel struck the bridge, reportedly due to the captain misjudging the clearance height.
Collision and Closure
The incident occurred in late October when containers loaded on an inland vessel collided with the structure. The bridge, which runs parallel to the New Elbe Bridges over the Norderelbe, has been closed to traffic ever since. For months, experts have been assessing the structural integrity of the bridge to determine the extent of the damage and the feasibility of repairs.
Irreparable Damage Confirmed
The assessment concluded that a repair of the damaged section is not possible. This has led to the decision to proceed with a partial demolition of the central part of the bridge. Authorities are now exploring the possibility of constructing a temporary bridge to alleviate the ongoing traffic issues.
Traffic Disruptions and Historical Significance
The closure of the Freihafenelbbrücke has significantly impacted traffic flow in Hamburg, diverting vehicles to other Elbe crossings and regularly causing congestion. The Freihafenelbbrücke, which was opened on March 31, 1926, is a protected historical monument, adding to the complexity and sensitivity of the demolition and reconstruction plans.
Future Plans and Next Steps
While the partial demolition is confirmed, detailed plans for its execution and the construction of a provisional replacement are still being worked out by the authorities. The focus remains on ensuring safety and minimizing further disruption to the city’s infrastructure and daily life.
Source: https://www.ndr.de/nachrichten/hamburg/nach-schiffsunfall-teilabriss-der-freihafenelbbruecke-geplant,freihafenelbbruecke-104.html
