January 1997

Vol. 12, No. 1   What's this?

A Bridge Too Far Gone

from the January, 1997 issue of Undercurrent  

When the plane lands in Micronesia's Palau airport, divers get off the plane on the island of Balbedob, then cross the bridge to the capital city, Koror. On September 26, the 450-foot center section of the bridge collapsed into the fast-flowing Renrak Channel 100 feet below. Several cars went into the drink and a few people died. Along with traffic, the bridge also carried electricity, telephone service, and water to Koror.

A few divers were stranded, but as of this printing most utilities have been restored and a ferry operation set up for transportation between the islands. However, if you've booked a land-based operation in Palau, I would advise contacting the resort ahead of time to see if it is fully operational.

J. Q.