Drivers risk lives crossing collapsed Palaiopyrgos bridge in Greece

In September 2023, storm Daniel caused a pillar of the Palaiopyrgos bridge over the Pineios River in the Larissa region of Greece to collapse, prompting officials to close the crossing.

Three years later the bridge remains unrepaired. Motorists and farmers continue to traverse the damaged structure, accepting the danger of another collapse, because the alternative detour adds roughly 30 kilometres to their route.

A construction contract for a new bridge has been signed, but work has not begun and no timetable has been provided. Local authorities warn that a repeat storm could turn the ruined bridge into a flood barrier for nearby communities.