The newly constructed Kukës Bridge, which spans the Drin River on the Nation’s Road connecting Albania with Kosovo, has officially opened to traffic. Prime Minister Edi Rama, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Energy Belinda Balluku, and other officials inspected the inauguration of the bridge, which is celebrated as one of Albania’s most significant infrastructure projects, easing long-standing traffic bottlenecks and providing better access for surrounding communities.
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| Kukës Bridge |
During the opening ceremony, Prime Minister Rama highlighted the bridge’s importance for regional connectivity and public safety. “The Great Kukës Bridge finally opens, an impressive work that permanently clears the long-standing traffic congestion around the lake—an area that became accident-prone, especially in winter. The bridge also provides a meaningful answer to those who spread false information on social media, as its opening was delayed only to ensure proper road access for nearby communities,” Rama stated.
Minister Balluku emphasized the bridge’s dual purpose as both a functional structure and a work of art, noting that the bridge and its access roads cost approximately €40 million. The new bridge replaces an older structure, solving a historic transportation bottleneck along the national route and significantly easing movement in the area.
Stretching 310 meters in length, the Kukës Bridge boasts two concrete bases on either side of the lake, with a striking metal arch spanning the entire length without intermediate supports. This innovative design not only enhances safety and traffic flow but also brings a unique architectural appeal for travelers passing through this vital route.
The new Kukës Bridge stands as a modern engineering marvel and a symbol of Albania’s commitment to improving infrastructure and strengthening ties with neighboring Kosovo.