World’s longest suspension bridge approved

After decades of planning and much controversy, Italy’s government has finally approved the construction of a $15.6bn bridge connecting Sicily to the mainland

STRAIT OF
MESSINA
BRIDGE
ITALY
Villa San Giovanni
Messina
SICILY
Reggio Calabria
CALABRIA
Strait of Messina
SICILY
CALABRIA
5km
3 miles

Total length
3,666m
Suspended span
3,300m

Cross section: Three traffic lanes plus one service lane on either side
Two railway lines

Controversy: Bridge criticised for being built in earthquake-prone zone and for potential harm to environment, amid concerns that Cosa Nostra and 'Ndrangheta criminal gangs could infiltrate project to reap huge profits

Sources: Reuters, Messina Strait Company, Webuild Group
Picture: Webuild Group
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