New Kompsatos bridge in Rodopi ready, inauguration expected after Aug. 20

The new Kompsatos Bridge in the Municipality of Yassıköy (Iasmos), Rodopi, has been completed and is expected to be officially inaugurated after Aug. 20, according to local authorities.

Modern structure completed

Rodopi Deputy Regional Governor Manolis Tapatzas said the bridge is a modern, robust structure built with enhanced safety features following the collapse of the previous bridge in September 2017.

Speaking to Greece's public broadcaster ERT, Tapatzas said the new bridge incorporates 20- to 30-meter-long concrete piles, along with all the safety measures required for the site.

Additional drainage measures added

Following a revised engineering study, an internal drainage system has also been installed to channel water away from the structure.

The measure was introduced after water was detected in the slopes near Polyanthos following the previous collapse, with the aim of preventing internal erosion and safeguarding the bridge's long-term stability.

Final works underway

The remaining work includes the installation of the bridge's lighting system, which is expected to be completed in the coming days.

Authorities also plan to install a metal protective net along the section leading to the old Kompsatos Bridge—which has carried traffic since 2017—and near the medieval bridge to protect the area from potential rockfalls and landslides.

Focus shifts to medieval bridge

Tapatzas said he will convene a meeting in the coming days with all relevant authorities, including the Rodopi Ephorate of Antiquities, to assess the condition of the nearby medieval Kompsatos Bridge.

The discussions will focus on identifying the studies required, updating existing documentation and determining the steps needed to secure funding from Greece's Ministry of Culture. The medieval bridge was not included in previous funding programs.