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Synchronized Lifts on the Sava – Bridge Dismantling in Belgrade

A major engineering project is currently underway in Belgrade: the dismantling of the Old Sava Bridge has begun, with HSP Ltd. providing full-scale waterborne support. The sight of multi-ton steel bridge sections suspended above the river is both striking and a testament to the technical precision required.

Work began on the left bank, where the first major lift involved a 112-ton steel span, carefully removed by the Clark Ádám floating crane. This marked more than just the start of dismantling — it was a moment where the precise coordination of boat crews, engineers, industrial climbers, and project managers came together with millimeter-level accuracy.

The second lift posed an even greater challenge: a 135-ton section required more complex preparation and precise positioning. On the water, the entire fleet — including the Botond push boat, TS80 barges, and motorboats — operated in seamless coordination. The bridge elements were placed onto the barges, where they were cut into smaller sections. Once again, the Clark Ádám crane took center stage to safely transfer the pieces ashore.

 

 

Dismantling has since progressed to the right bank. In the most recent operation, the outermost right-bank span — another 135-ton steel structure — was lifted and processed with the same meticulously choreographed sequence. Before each lift, we calculated the lifting angles, center of gravity, and rope connection points — leaving no room for error.

The project is proceeding on schedule. Preparations for the next elements are already underway — with every movement backed by decades of expertise in marine construction and water-based logistics.