Drivers in Greece continue to navigate the Palaiopyrgos Bridge despite the structure being technically out of service for nearly three years.
Motorists in the Larissa region of Greece continue to drive across the Palaiopyrgos Bridge, even though the concrete span has been buckling since Storm Daniel hit in September 2023. The bridge, which connects the villages of Palaiopyrgos and Alexandrini over the Pineios River, has eroded significantly and currently sits only centimeters above the water. Despite being officially impassable, drivers frequently use the bridge to avoid a 19-mile detour on the national highway. This route is particularly essential for local farmers who must reach their fields daily. However, the lack of physical barriers means many travelers, including tourists, often do not realize the bridge is broken until they are halfway across. Local officials and residents have expressed concern over the delay in repairs. Yiannis Beritzas, the president of the Paleopyrgos village, noted that the bridge has cut off direct routes to Kissavos. Lawmaker Velopoulos Kyriakos warned that a new storm could cause the bridge to act as a dam, potentially flooding the village.