Aalter (Brussels morning newspaper) – The bridge between Maria-Aalter and Knesselare on the E40 is closed to traffic after an accident. Only pedestrians and cyclists can cross. Tom Pacqué says the inspection continues.
As Vrt News reported, a bridge that connects Maria-Aalter and Knesselare was damaged after an accident. An initial verification showed some structural problems. Because of this, the road and traffic agency has closed the bridge. They want to do a more exhaustive investigation.
They mentioned that the bridge is a key route on the E40 highway and the railway line, which joins the 2 cities. Due to the closure of the bridge, traffic is now used on narrower rural roads. These roads are not built for many cars, during time of duration, especially. This causes delays and could lead to traffic jams and accidents on the narrowest roads.
Why is the Aalter bridge closed on the E40 and what are the diversion plans?
Local officials know that the closure of the bridge is causing problems and are working on solutions. Tom Pacqué, the leader of public works in Aalter, said that the bridge is important and includes the difficulties. The city is discovering how to help traffic to move better between Maria-Aalter and Knesselare.
There are deviations, but the city could add more signals, control traffic or fix some roads. How long is the bridge closed depends on the results of the inspection. The local government focuses on ensuring that the detour routes are safe.
The bridge on the E40 highway is closed, and officials make it known to drivers. They have presented LED signs on the main roads to warn people about the closure and suggest different routes. It is not clear how long the bridge will close; The authorities are still reviewing it.
Tom Pacqué said they are talking to the Traffic Agency and Flemish Highway (AWV). They are discussing whether some vehicles, such as children under 3.5 tons, can still use the bridge or if they can use a unidirectional system. Nothing is yet decided, and they hope to have more information later today, May 12, 2025.
According to the officials, although the bridge is closed, the E40 highway is open as usual. Cars can still drive in E40 without any problem. They are checking the bridge to see if it is safe and trying to cause as many problems as possible for local traffic.
