Koror-Babelthuap Bridge

bridge, Palau

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 30, 2026

Quick Summary

The Koror-Babelthuap Bridge was a vital link connecting the islands of Babelthuap and Koror in Palau. Initially, a concrete cantilever bridge, constructed in 1977, was the longest of its kind globally. However, it tragically collapsed in 1996, severely disrupting Palau's transportation, communication, and water systems. A temporary pontoon bridge was put in place, followed by a suspension bridge built with Japanese aid, which opened in 2002. Babelthuap is the largest island in Palau and the Caroline Islands, while Koror is a major population center and former capital.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

2 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

Palau
History
In September 1996 the bridge connecting Koror with Babelthuap island collapsed, killing two people and wreaking havoc on the national economy. The capital, cut off from the international airport on Babelthuap, found itself isolated from the rest of the country, as well as from the outside world, and telecommunications,…
Read More
In September 1996 the bridge connecting Koror with Babelthuap island collapsed, killing two people and wreaking havoc on the national economy. The capital, cut off from the international airport on Babelthuap, found itself isolated from the rest of the country, as well as from the outside world, and telecommunications,…
Read More