The construction of a new bridge linking Greece and Turkey in the Evros region is set to commence. According to recent reports, the project has rapidly shaped and is soon expected to start. The brief was released by the Greek company responsible for its implementation. Egnatia Odos SA, the company assigned the project’s design alongside its Turkish counterparts, noted they have completed the study. It also noted that it had handed its findings to its Turkish counterparts in the project. Egnatia’s CEO noted that though the study began in 2006, it has entered a very intense phase. “As a result, we are delighted to announce that after four years of tension between the two sides, we can hand over the final study and design of the new bridge at Kipi,” he added.
Scope of Implementation on the New Bridge Linking Greece and Turkey
Implementing the new bridge linking Greece and Turkey entails various plans and is expected to be completed in 2027. A video of a 3D model of the cross border bridge shows the bridge’s final look, raising anticipation. In the coming months, Egnatia SA expects to finalize tender documentation on the Greek side. The Turkish side, also expected to do the same, as noted in an agreement between both nations. Once done, the two sides should be able to select contractors that will ensure the project’s delivery.
Moreover, there are expectations to include the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transportation of both nations to oversee the project. The new bridge will be a cable structure spanning 400 meters above the Evros River. The width of the bridge will measure up to 31.15 meters and will have four lanes, two on each side. Dubbed the “Friendship Bridge,” it commencement will finally aligned to the new schedule set for it. The new schedule aimed to see construction start in 2024 after officials from both nations agreed in 2023. Once completed, it will be the second bridge serving as a link between Greece and Turkey. There is already one that is currently in operation.
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The Bridge as a Significant Feat between the Two Nations
One of the immense significances of the new bridge is that it will act as a gateway between Europe and Asia. The new bridge linking Greece and Turkey is expected to be integral to the future pan-European “Corridor IV.” The bridge will consist of a main bridge and two landing bridges. This will facilitate easing transport and ensure efficient travel. Moreover, the new bridge will serve as a counterpart to the existing bridge, lessening traffic congestion. The increased heavy vehicle traffic and the concentration of tourists have made the current bridge inadequate. However, the Turkish Transport minister noted that the current bridge is fine. Abdulkadir Uraloglu noted that the existing Ipsala-Kipi Bridge over the Meric River has no structural issues. It also acts as a sign of diplomacy, owing to the creation of the structure is made possible by the collaboration of the Greek and Turkish governments.
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