Hamburg's Norderelbbrücke on the A1 is undergoing major changes due to its deteriorating condition.

A full closure of the highway between the Norderelbe junction and Hamburg-Billstedt is in place this weekend to implement a new traffic system aimed at reducing stress on the aging bridge.

Traffic is being rerouted through the city center and the Elbtunnel, causing significant congestion, with delays stretching up to six kilometers.

The new system will narrow lanes and shift them to the center of the bridge, with heavy trucks restricted to the right lane and required to maintain a 50-meter distance.

Trucks over 7.5 tons face additional detours, adding up to eight kilometers to their routes.

These measures are designed to extend the bridge's lifespan until its planned replacement in 2030. Authorities warn of continued traffic disruptions in the coming days, despite reduced commuter numbers during school holidays.