After the closure of the dilapidated Elbe bridge in Bad Schandau, almost a third (31 percent) of companies in the region fear for their economic existence. In a survey conducted by the Dresden Chamber of Industry and Commerce, 61 percent of participants also reported a drop in turnover, while nine percent complained of a loss of staff, according to the IHK.
"This makes it clear that we are in a situation that goes beyond what we know from floods and fires," said IHK Managing Director Lukas Rohleder. Financial support is, of course, an immediate requirement, but ultimately the focus for everyone is on restoring transport links as quickly as possible. The bridge closure has a very significant impact on economic activity.
The Elbe bridge was closed for safety reasons on November 7, 2024, which came as a complete surprise to locals and businesses. This was preceded by a special inspection following the partial collapse of Dresden's Carola Bridge. It should be clear by June whether the bridge in Bad Schandau can still be used, at least to a limited extent. Plans are already underway for a temporary bridge and a new replacement structure.
