Bridge in German city of Dresden partially collapses

A bridge in the city of Dresden in eastern Germany partially collapsed into the Elbe river in the early hours of Wednesday.

The pedestrian and cycle path as well as the tram tracks of the Carola Bridge - one of Dresden's traffic arteries - were affected by the collapse, according to the situation centre.

The bridge, which the fire brigade said is about 100 metres long, collapsed around 3 am (0100 GMT). According to initial information, no people were injured.

The cause of the partial collapse was initially unclear. The area was cordoned off extensively and the fire brigade called on the public to avoid the area and not to obstruct emergency services.