230-Ton Mur Bridge Successfully Dismantled on A2 South Motorway Near Graz

The removal of the second historic Mur bridge on the A2 South Motorway near Graz has been completed successfully, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing infrastructure upgrade in the region. The steel structure, weighing approximately 230 tons and stretching nearly 100 meters in length, was meticulously dismantled using a coordinated operation involving three heavy-duty cranes.

During the nighttime operation, which required the temporary closure of the A2 in the direction of Klagenfurt, the bridge was lifted in precise increments and loaded onto a specialized transport vehicle. The dismantled bridge was then relocated to a nearby decommissioned parking area, where it will be processed and recycled as part of Austria's commitment to sustainable construction practices.

Efficient planning and execution allowed for the motorway to be closed for only a short period, minimizing disruption to traffic. The closure began at 8 p.m., and by early morning, the crane equipment had been removed and the roadway thoroughly cleaned, allowing motorists to resume travel safely and without delay.

The removal of this bridge follows a similar operation conducted in January 2025, underscoring the complex and carefully managed process of renewing major transport links over the Mur River. The deconstruction of these aging structures is essential to accommodate modern traffic demands and enhance the safety and durability of the motorway network.

In the coming months, new bridge supports will be constructed at the site where the old bridge stood. Once completed, the newly built southern Mur bridge will be shifted onto these supports using hydraulic presses, a process scheduled for June 2026. This innovative approach is designed to ensure that the motorway remains operational and that the transition between the old and new structures is as seamless as possible.

The bridge replacement project is a critical component of a broader effort to modernize the A2 South Motorway near Graz, a key transportation corridor in Austria. The initiative aims to improve traffic flow, enhance safety, and extend the lifespan of vital infrastructure assets. The work also reflects a broader strategy of integrating sustainability into major construction projects, with the dismantled materials being recycled and the surrounding construction zones undergoing extensive reforestation and restoration.

Renaturation efforts are planned for the area previously occupied by the old bridge. These measures include extensive reforestation and ecological restoration, contributing to the preservation and enhancement of the local environment following the completion of construction activities.

The successful completion of the bridge removal and the ongoing infrastructure enhancements are expected to have lasting benefits for commuters, freight transport, and the regional economy. The careful coordination required for such large-scale engineering projects highlights the expertise and planning involved in maintaining and upgrading Austria's major transportation routes.