Dresden emergency services race to prevent flooding after bridge collapse

Emergency services in Dresden are currently engaged in urgent efforts to clear the wreckage of the Carolabrücke bridge, which partially collapsed into the Elbe River early Wednesday. The incident has caused significant disruption in the city, affecting travel and cutting off hot water supply to residents due to damage to heating pipelines. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as no one was on or under the bridge at the time of the collapse. The bridge, a vital route for trams, cyclists, and pedestrians, had recently undergone repairs on two of its three sections. The cause of the collapse is under investigation, with initial assessments suggesting potential corrosion from chloride contamination. The remaining sections were scheduled for maintenance next year, highlighting the ongoing concerns regarding the structural integrity of older infrastructure in Germany. As the Elbe River is expected to rise to 12 feet by the end of the week, officials are racing against time to complete demolition work by Sunday evening. The military is assisting in these efforts, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The head of Dresden's Road and Civil Engineering Department has expressed the critical nature of the work, as flooding could exacerbate the already precarious conditions. Authorities have classified the incident as an accident, with no evidence of criminal activity. Police have urged the public to refrain from spreading misinformation on social media, ensuring that accurate information is disseminated during this challenging time for the city.