August 8, 2025 | 11:32 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Italian government has received approval to build the world's longest suspension bridge. The bridge connecting the mainland to Sicily will span over three kilometers. Proposed since 1969, the plan to build a bridge over the Strait of Messina has raised concerns about mafia infiltration and seismic risks.
The concept of building this bridge is said to have originated from ancient Roman times when the Romans wanted to transport 100 captive elephants from the Battle of Panormus in 250 BC. Currently, cars, trains, and pedestrians cross the Strait of Messina by ferry in a travel time of 30 minutes.
Mafia Involvement
The Italian government estimates that the construction of the bridge and its facilities will take about 10 years. Although approved, it still needs validation from the national audit court for several weeks. However, Transportation Minister Matteo Salvini is optimistic that work will begin in September or October and construction will start next year. The bridge is expected to be completed by the year 2033.
"The Strait of Messina is a project without precedent in the world. This goal is to complete by 2032-33," said Salvini, as quoted in the Guardian.
Salvini ensures that the construction project will be monitored to prevent criminal infiltration. If mafia involvement is found, he ensures that the bridge will not be built.
Earthquake Risks and Environmental Impact
The bridge will be built by a consortium led by Italy's Webuild Group, which includes Sacyr from Spain and the IHI group from Japan. Webuild CEO Pietro Salini estimates that the project will create more than 100,000 job opportunities. Once approved, his team will begin the initial implementation of the project, which includes archaeological and geological surveys, as quoted from Fox News.
In addition to mafia involvement, this bridge is at risk of collapsing due to earthquakes. The Messina Fault, which separates Sicily from the Italian mainland, caused a deadly earthquake in 1908.
Webuild ensures that the suspension bridge has a lower risk of collapsing due to earthquakes. They cite suspension bridges built in Japan, Turkey, and California, which are areas with high seismic activity. The Strait of Messina Bridge will surpass the position of the Canakkale Bridge in northwest Turkey, which is currently the longest suspension bridge, also built by Webuild.
Environmental groups have also lodged additional complaints with the European Union. They are concerned that the project will impact migrating birds. Additionally, they assert that environmental studies have not demonstrated the project's public necessity and that any environmental damage resulting from the project will be compensated for.
Editor's Choice: Most Stressful Travel Cities in 2025: Paris Ranks Highest, Dubai Lowest
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Why Dressing Well Matters When Visiting Italy
4 hari lalu
In Italy, dressing modestly is a sign of respect and good manners.
10 Most Beautiful Places in Italy, Most Scenic Spots
14 hari lalu
From natural wonders to artistic treasures and cultural gems, discover the most beautiful places in Italy where you can capture the country's heart.
Top 5 Best Summer Destinations in Europe to Escape the Heat
24 hari lalu
Want a summer getaway without the sweat? These best summer destinations in Europe offer cool weather, stunning views, and a break from the heat.
Top 10 Sunniest Cities in Europe, from Cartagena to Madrid
30 hari lalu
Revealed by a new study, Cartagena officially leads the ranking of the sunniest cities in Europe, having an average of 283 hours of sun monthly.
Jakarta's Air Pollution Reaches Chronic Phase, Activists Warn of Emergency
30 hari lalu
Environmental activists assert that air pollution in Jakarta and its surrounding areas has entered a chronic phase.
5 Countries Offering Marriage Incentives; Japan and Italy Included
32 hari lalu
Apart from wedding expenses, these countries also cover numerous marriage-related spendings to encourage their citizens to marry.
Why the International Community Bans Chemical Weapons in Warfare
32 hari lalu
German and Dutch intelligence agencies have accused Russia of using chemical weapons in Ukraine. Why are such weapons heavily condemned?
Top Priorities for 2025 BRICS Summit in Brazil
32 hari lalu
At the 2025 BRICS Summit in Brazil, discussions focused on global governance reform, environmental issues, and global health.
Jakarta Needs at Least 5 Waste-to-Energy Plants, Says Environment Minister
38 hari lalu
The Waste-to-Energy Power Plants (PLTSa) are believed to help reduce Jakarta's daily waste output, which can reach 7,000-8,000 tons.
The Charms of Umbria, Italy's Most Underrated Luxury Destination
40 hari lalu
There is a score of overlooked cities across Italy, one of them being Umbria.
