Amazing footage from one of the most dangerous bridges in the world: See how brave drivers are crossing it

A video showing drivers crossing a partially collapsed bridge has sparked concern over safety conditions in Greece’s Thessaly region. The footage captures vehicles navigating a damaged section of the Palaiopyrgos Bridge near the town of Larissa, which was severely damaged during a storm three years ago. The bridge, spanning the Pinios River, had its central portion bent by the storm but remained standing just above the water. Despite being officially closed to traffic, local residents continue using the structure daily, bypassing the damage to avoid a longer detour of nearly 30 kilometers. The incident comes after a powerful storm hit the region of Thessaly three years ago, damaging or seriously injuring 79 bridges. Among them was the Palaiopyrgos Bridge, which spans approximately 120 meters. While the storm caused significant structural damage, the bridge did not collapse entirely. Instead, its center was bent inward, leaving it barely above the river. Since then, the bridge has been deemed unsafe for regular use, yet it remains in active use by locals who have developed a routine around the situation. Local media outlet LarissaNet recently published footage capturing cars driving through the compromised section of the bridge. In the videos, drivers can be seen descending into the damaged part of the structure before climbing back up on the other side. This informal route has become a necessity for many residents, who argue that alternative routes would require them to travel significantly farther. The footage highlights the ongoing reliance on the damaged infrastructure despite official warnings against its use. Although the bridge has been officially closed to traffic, there are no physical barriers preventing access. Additionally, navigation apps still direct drivers toward the site, with some users choosing to cross the bridge despite the risks. The lack of enforcement and continued use suggest a growing acceptance among locals of the dangerous condition of the structure. Efforts to repair or replace the bridge have reportedly been approved, though construction work has yet to begin. Officials have acknowledged the need for both the demolition of the damaged structure and the building of a new one. However, delays in planning and resource allocation have left the community dependent on the existing, unstable bridge. Until these works commence, the risk of further incidents remains high. Residents say they have no choice but to continue using the bridge, given the impracticality of alternative routes. They describe the situation as a daily challenge, balancing convenience with safety. Some have expressed frustration over the slow progress in addressing the issue, while others remain resigned to their circumstances. The footage shared by local media has drawn attention to the precarious state of the bridge, raising questions about oversight and responsibility in maintaining public infrastructure. As long as the bridge stands, so too does the risk of another disaster.