Deir ez-Zor closes dirt bridge due to rising Euphrates water levels

The Deir ez-Zor Emergency Response Committee has temporarily closed the dirt bridge over the Euphrates River to conduct precautionary reinforcement and maintenance works. This decision follows a rise in the river's water levels, driven by increased water discharge from the Kadir Dam, which has seen flow rates increase from 600 to 825 cubic meters per second.

During the closure, traffic is being diverted to the military bridge. To manage congestion, traffic on the military bridge is being regulated with five-minute intervals for both directions, and heavy vehicles are prohibited to ensure safety. Authorities have advised residents to avoid the riverbanks and refrain from swimming due to the rising water levels.

Reinforcement efforts include installing additional pipes on the city side of the bridge to alleviate water pressure on its structure. Officials expect the maintenance to conclude shortly, with plans to reopen the dirt bridge to traffic once the works are complete.