The Italian government has officially approved an ambitious project that will construct the world's longest suspension bridge, linking Sicily to Calabria for an estimated €13.5 billion ($15.6 billion). At a staggering length of 3.3 kilometers (2.05 miles), the designers assure that the bridge can endure earthquakes, as it will be situated in one of the Mediterranean's most seismically active regions.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni highlighted it as pivotal for Italy's future, stating, “We enjoy difficult challenges." With construction targeted for completion between 2032 and 2033, Transport Minister Matteo Salvini claims the project could generate 120,000 jobs annually and invigorate the local economy in two of Europe’s economically struggling regions.
However, the approval is just a step; the project still requires clearance from Italy's Court of Auditors alongside environmental assessments at both national and European levels. Local residents express concerns over expropriations, and politicians point out potential resource diversion from essential services to this colossal project.
Opposition groups, like the grassroots "No to the Bridge," argue it will drain vital resources in drought-prone areas and neglect local infrastructure needs. Presently, train services across the Strait are limited to ferry crossings, but if successful, the bridge promises a transformative connection for residents and travelers alike.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni highlighted it as pivotal for Italy's future, stating, “We enjoy difficult challenges." With construction targeted for completion between 2032 and 2033, Transport Minister Matteo Salvini claims the project could generate 120,000 jobs annually and invigorate the local economy in two of Europe’s economically struggling regions.
However, the approval is just a step; the project still requires clearance from Italy's Court of Auditors alongside environmental assessments at both national and European levels. Local residents express concerns over expropriations, and politicians point out potential resource diversion from essential services to this colossal project.
Opposition groups, like the grassroots "No to the Bridge," argue it will drain vital resources in drought-prone areas and neglect local infrastructure needs. Presently, train services across the Strait are limited to ferry crossings, but if successful, the bridge promises a transformative connection for residents and travelers alike.
