Authorities in Gorinchem, Netherlands, are fining truck drivers €500 for violating a ban on heavy vehicles crossing the Merwede Bridge. The ban, implemented due to weakened steel in the bridge’s structure, aims to prevent potential collapse, a risk highlighted by experts in 2016. Despite a significant decrease in truck traffic since the ban – from 18,000 to 570 daily – continued violations prompted increased police and Rijkswaterstaat (Dutch public works) enforcement. Previously, only trucks with European license plates could be fined via camera systems, but current physical checks allow for penalties for all drivers. Inspections revealed the steel's strength is lower than initially assessed, necessitating the complete closure to trucks and tour buses. Construction of a replacement bridge has begun, and the current structure will be dismantled only after the new one is completed.