Beukelsbrug, Steel bridge in Rotterdam, Netherlands
The Beukelsbrug is a steel bridge that crosses a waterway in Rotterdam, connecting two neighborhoods on either side. It is built to allow ships to pass underneath by raising its sections when larger vessels need to go through.
The Beukelsbrug was built as part of Rotterdam's reconstruction after World War II, when the city renewed its infrastructure. The bridge reflects the choice to create a modern city that serves both road traffic and shipping.
The bridge shapes how Rotterdam presents itself as a port city, showing how water and urban life blend throughout the area. For residents, it is part of daily life in a city that centers around its relationship with rivers and the sea.
Boats and vessels can coordinate their passage using the Waterkaart Live system, which handles requests automatically and cuts down on waiting times. It helps to be familiar with this digital system before traveling, especially during busy periods.
The bridge is one of few examples in Europe where ship passages are fully automated, allowing vessels to request openings online without traditional radio communication. This system shows how technology and port operations work together in Rotterdam.
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