The collapse of a century-old railroad lift bridge affects river traffic between the U.S. and Canada

A hundred-year-old rail lift bridge connecting the U.S.-Canada border has collapsed, causing disruption to water traffic along the Rainy River. The incident occurred near the cities of International Falls, Minnesota, and Fort Frances, Ontario. The collapse did not involve any trains or cause any injuries, as reported by the Minneapolis Star Tribune. The cause of the collapse is currently under investigation.

Impact on the Environment

According to the Canadian National Railway, some “biodegradable, non-toxic hydraulic oil” was released during the collapse. However, environmental crews have contained the spill and are actively working to recover the fluid, mitigating any potential harm to the surrounding area.

Crews have initiated repairs on the Rainy River Rail Lift Bridge, also known as the 5 Mile Bridge. This historic structure, built in 1908, plays a vital role in allowing traffic to pass through the river, which serves as the international border between the two countries. The bridge swings up to accommodate vessels navigating from Lake of the Woods to Rainy Lake.