Chaos ensues after London’s Tower Bridge stuck open for 30 mins

The famous Tower Bridge in London got stuck open and brought the traffic to a standstill on Thursday, September 28. This was something unusual as this had never happened before in London. The incident took place when the bridge was supposed to close after allowing a boat to pass underneath on River Thames at around 1:15 p.m., reported UK-based The Independent.  

The boat, for which a free passage was given so that it could pass through the under bridge was the barge Adieu but things didn't happen as planned. As soon as the boat crossed the bridge, it was supposed to come back to its normal stage. However, the bridge stuck open in raised position for more than 30 minutes, which led to a traffic jam on London’s roads.

London’s Tower Bridge got stuck

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, one of X users wrote,  "First time in all my years in London seeing Tower Bridge raised for a boat to pass. And now it’s stuck open. Sorry, everyone!" In the photo, people can be seen gathered around the bridge to witness this rare moment.  

First time in all my years in London seeing Tower Bridge raised for a boat to pass. And now it’s stuck open. Sorry everyone! pic.twitter.com/SIrbuYpPt9

— gish (@gishphotographs) September 26, 2023

One of the eyewitnesses explained the incident and said, “I first thought it was nice to see the bridge open but then realised something might be wrong due to the different angles. I watched it for a little while. There was a lot of traffic (built-up) with two tourist buses waiting on the bridge and large crowds," reported The Independent.  

According to the viewers, who were present at Tower Bridge, the bridge was closed for more than 30 minutes. “I was more excited to see a Thames seal, which I had never seen pop up (in the water) before," said another eyewitness.  

London’s Tower Bridge is a famous building that spans the River Thames and links Southwark and Tower Hamlets in Greater London. Since the construction was finished in 1894, it has served as a significant landmark in the city. The bridge's entrance is 240 metres (800 feet) long and 76 metres (250 feet) broad. It is noted for its two walkways made of glass and its twin towers that rise 61 metres (200 feet) above the River Thames are well-liked by visitors.