North shore communities cut off after cracks in Quebec bridge prompt closure

The only road access to several communities on Quebec’s north shore has been cut off after officials closed the bridge linking them to the rest of the province.

Provincial officials say the Touzel Bridge will remain closed for the coming days after an inspection Tuesday found a crack in the structure.

The bridge connects the Minganie region, home to about 6,500 people in 10 communities, to the rest of Quebec.

The shuttered span crosses the Sheldrake River and connects Sept-Îles to towns including Havre-Saint-Pierre.

2:01 Cracks spotted in Miami bridge before collapse

• Cracks spotted in Miami bridge before collapse
• Critics denounce lack of reserved bus lane on future Île-aux-Tourtes bridge
• Fallout continues following change of plans for Quebec City’s third link tunnel
• Transport Minister says repairs on Île-aux Tourtes bridge are needed

Previous Video

Next Video

The bridge on Highway 138, just over 1,000 kilometres northeast of Montreal, was closed abruptly Tuesday after the crack was noticed, and Transport Minister Geneviève Guilbault says experts are determining the extent of the damage and how best to make repairs.

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Employment Minister Kateri Champagne Jourdain, who represents the region, says health authorities are confident there is enough medication for the time being, and Guilbault says essential supplies are being sent by cargo plane from Montreal.

2:16 Pittsburgh bridge collapses ahead of Biden visit to highlight infrastructure needs