A raging debate over an ultra-modern bridge spanning Venice's Grand Canal was further fuelled Thursday with allegations that the structure's handrail has the potential to become "scorching" hot.
Venice's Order of Engineers met Thursday to discuss infrastructure projects in the lagoon city, including the controversial steel-and- glass bridge designed by Spanish architect, Santiago Calatrava.
"I noticed that the upper handrail becomes burning hot. I'm afraid next summer it will be a problem," the Order's president, Vito Saccarola, was quoted as saying by news agency Adnkronos.
"More than a bridge, it is a catwalk of a particular form and size," said Saccarola, describing the structure as "beautiful, but not indispensable."
The bridge, Venice's first new one in 70 years and only the fourth to be built over the Grand Canal, was to have been opened on September 18 by Italian President Giorgio Napolitano. However, the ceremony was scrapped amid fears that protestors would try to disrupt it.
Dubbed the "carpet of light" by its admirers, the 94-metre single arching span links Venice's railway station with Piazzale Roma, the car, bus and ferry terminal on the other side of the Grand Canal.
Critics say it clashes with the spectacular architecture on the Grand Canal - the water-way serving as Venice's "main street." Others complained about the lack of access for the disabled.
But most of the acrimony has centred over claims that the cost of the bridge rose from an original estimate of 5 million euros (6.8 million dollars) to 20 million, partly because of delays and legal disputes with the construction company.
Shares fell 2.1 per cent Friday on the Seoul stock exchange on general recession fears. South Korea's won dropped against the dollar.
When the Spirit rover landed on Mars five years ago, no one expected it or its sister rover Opportunity to make it to their first birthdays, let alone their fifth.
Amelie Mauresmo fell victim to a leg injury after less than half an hour on court Friday to hand over a 4-0 victory which put French compatriot Marion Bartoli into the final of the Brisbane International.
Mumbai-based movie Slumdog Millionaire won five prizes Thursday night at the Critics Choice Awards, cementing its position as a surprise favourite just as the Oscar season moves into high gear.
After the Taipei Zoo received two giant pandas from China, another Taiwan zoo said Friday it is seeking to receive a pair of pandas from China.