Constructed during the East German era, the Carolabrücke serves as one of five critical north-south connections for vehicles and trams in the area, and is now considered at high risk of further collapse.

The city's entire district heating supply has been disrupted due to damage to two heating pipelines, resulting in hot water flooding parts of the terrace bank.

Access to the area around the bridge has been restricted, affecting the Elberadweg and the federal waterway of the Elbe, with the public advised to avoid the vicinity.

In the early hours of September 11, 2024, a section of the Carolabrücke bridge in Dresden partially collapsed into the Elbe River, raising significant concerns about public safety and infrastructure integrity.

Traffic diversions have been implemented in response to the incident, with essential traffic being allowed while other routes remain closed.

Boat traffic on the Elbe River has been halted, impacting both cargo ships and tourism sightseeing vessels, as debris from the collapse obstructs navigation.

Despite the disruption, three historic steamers—'Wehlen', 'Krippen', and 'Diesbar'—are still operational upstream, as they are located above the bridge.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the collapse, treating it as an accident without signs of foul play, while experts are on-site to assess the situation.

Holger Kalbe, head of the Dresden Roads and Civil Engineering Department, noted that the poor condition of the bridge was unforeseen, despite previous assessments of other sections.

Fortunately, no injuries have been reported as a result of the bridge's partial collapse, but debris is obstructing the river and leading to road closures in the surrounding area.

Reports indicate that the collapse occurred around 3 AM for currently unknown reasons, with emergency services alerted shortly thereafter.

The collapse affected a 100-meter stretch of the bridge, which includes pedestrian and bike paths as well as tram tracks, leading to significant disruptions in traffic.