Ep 8. Genoa Bridge of Tragedy

In season 5 episode 8 of Engineering Catastrophes, titled "Genoa Bridge of Tragedy," viewers are transported to Genoa, a city located in northern Italy. The episode focuses on the Genoa Bridge, also known as the Morandi Bridge, which was a well-known landmark in the city. The bridge was a vital artery connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the rest of Italy, and it was used daily by over 25 million people.

The episode begins with a brief history of the bridge, which was built in the 1960s and named after its designer, Riccardo Morandi. The bridge was considered a marvel of engineering at the time, featuring a unique cable-stayed design with multiple spans. However, viewers soon learn that the bridge's design and construction were flawed from the start.

The episode delves into the various engineering and design flaws that plagued the Genoa Bridge throughout its lifespan. Many of these issues centered around the bridge's support columns, which were prone to corrosion and cracking. Despite these issues, the bridge continued to be used for decades, with maintenance and repairs often being carried out in a piecemeal fashion.

The episode also explores the human factors that may have contributed to the bridge's collapse. Viewers learn about the various parties involved in the bridge's construction and maintenance, including the Italian government, the private company responsible for operating the bridge, and the engineers and contractors involved in its design and construction. The episode raises questions about accountability and responsibility, as viewers are left to ponder who, if anyone, is ultimately responsible for the tragedy.

The episode features interviews with various experts, including engineers, architects, and disaster response personnel. These experts offer insights into the technical aspects of the bridge's design and construction, as well as their own personal experiences with the collapse and its aftermath.

Overall, "Genoa Bridge of Tragedy" is a sobering look at the intersection of engineering, design, and human error. It raises important questions about accountability and responsibility, and provides valuable lessons for engineers and designers working on similar projects in the future.