The Italian government plans to dispense 12 billion euros for the construction of what would become the world's longest suspension bridge. This ambitious bridge project has been in the planning phase for many years. However, in 2013, the company responsible for its construction was dissolved as part of cost-cutting measures during Italy's struggle to control its public debt.
This bridge, connecting Sicily to the southern Calabria region, is projected to span approximately 5km, featuring a central section of 3.3km, and thus surpassing the existing record held by the 2.02-km central span of the Canakkale Bridge in Turkey. Proponents of the project argue that the establishment of a rapid rail and road link would stimulate economic development in the underdeveloped southern regions of Italy.
Supporters also believe it would allow cargo ships traveling from the Suez Canal to unload in Sicily, with goods then transported northward by trains, reducing the need for expensive voyages across the Mediterranean Sea. Currently, automobiles, trucks, and trains must rely on ferries to cross the strait that separates Messina and the southern tip of Italy, a journey taking approximately 20 minutes.
Nonetheless, there are dissenting views regarding the bridge project. Critics question the wisdom of constructing it in an earthquake-prone area and raise concerns about potential adverse effects on the landscape and the ecosystem, as well as the substantial cost involved.
Recently, a consortium led by the Italian company Webuild announced that they had presented an updated version of the project, incorporating the latest technological advancements and adhering to current technical standards.
Furthermore, Italy's economy minister, Giancarlo Giorgetti, presented the government's budget for 2024 and specified that the 12 billion euros would be invested over several years, with the first three installments being paid by 2026. The Minister of Infrastructure, Matteo Salvini, has prioritized the bridge in the government's agenda and has previously expressed his desire for construction to initiate in the summer of 2024.
Sources: construction-europe.com, reuters.com, thestructuralengineer.info, thestructuralengineer.info
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