It’s official! On Wednesday, the Italian government approved the construction of a bridge that will connect Sicily to mainland Italy. This new bridge is expected to be 3.6 kilometres long, and it will be the world’s longest suspension bridge. The construction of this bridge is expected to be completed by 2032. Read to know more details.
Italy Approves Bridge Connecting Sicily To Mainland
According to US News, the Italian government has approved the construction of a new bridge connecting Sicily to mainland Italy. It is to be noted that this decision was not taken suddenly; the government has been discussing this project for years. The idea was first proposed in the late 1960s as an initiative to develop southern Italy, which in comparison to northern Italy is less developed.
After years of waiting, the project approval has got a lot of limelight. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has approved a 13.5 billion euros (approx. $15.6 billion) budget for the construction of the bridge. Moreover, Infrastructure Minister Matteo Salvini will hold a press conference to share further details.
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Concerns Raised By Citizens
While some are happy to know about the new bridge development, many Italian citizens are opposing. They have highlighted that the place where the bridge will be constructed is prone to earthquakes. Others also said that the bridge is unnecessary and will cause harm to the natural landscape. Even environmental groups have sent a complaint notice to the European Union, stating that this bridge can cause major harm to the environment.
The people supporting the development of the bridge said that it will bring significant benefits. Compared to the ferry system, it will make travel between Sicily and the mainland quicker and seamless. As per US News, if everything goes as planned, the new bridge will be ready to use by 2032.
Do you think this new bridge will make travel seamless for Italians? Let us know in the comments below!
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Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Drei Kubik (Representative Image)