Dresden Engineers Demolish Collapsed Bridge Section

Engineers in Dresden, Germany, are demolishing a damaged section of a key bridge following its partial collapse into the Elbe River. The emergency operation began, with excavators and demolition vehicles from a specialist company working to remove the sagging area of Bridge Section C.

The demolition is urgent due to forecasted flooding, which would significantly increase the danger level. Laser technology has shown that remnants of the collapsed section are slowly subsiding. Preparatory work included separating tram tracks and district heating pipes with small explosions after establishing a 100-meter safety zone.

The bridge collapse occurred last week, with approximately 100 meters falling into the Elbe River. The timing of the incident fortunately prevented potential casualties, as it's a key route for trams, cyclists, and pedestrians.

The operation involves breaking up and removing the sagging section and the cantilever arm connecting to the bank. The German Armed Forces and the Federal Agency for Technical Relief are assisting in the effort.

Officials are working against time as heavy rainfall is forecast in the neighboring Czech Republic, potentially causing the Elbe River to flood. The National Flood Centre expects up to 200 millimeters of rain within 72 hours in the Czech Republic and southern Poland, with up to 350 millimeters in upper mountain regions.

Water levels in Dresden are expected to reach between 5 and 8 meters by mid-next week. As a precautionary measure, dams on the Czech side of the border are being lowered slightly.

The cause of the collapse is under investigation, but police do not believe it was due to external influences. The incident occurred shortly after two sections of the bridge had been repaired.

This emergency operation highlights the challenges faced by infrastructure management and the importance of swift action in preventing further damage and potential disasters.