They're more than just footbridges

Dubai - Designers, engineers, builders and construction workers have dedicated great effort to build Dubai's footbridges.

We all know that footbridges are built to help pedestrians cross the streets safely. But have you ever noticed that in Dubai, overpasses do not only have a utilitarian function - they also complement the landscape and are beautiful works of architecture and art, too.
Now, we may have to take a look at these pedestrian bridges from a different perspective or angle to appreciate the beauty of these wonderful structures. We should pay attention to the architectural elements, including the symmetry, intricate design, parallel beams, and even the optical illusions, silhouettes and shades they create.
Although Dubai's footbridges may not be as world-famous as some of the historic footbridges such as Ponte Milvio and Ponte Sant'Angelo in Rome; Pont des Arts in Paris; Bank Bridge and the Bridge of Four Lions in Saint Petersburg; Pushkinsky and Bogdan Khmelnitsky Pedestrian bridges in Moscow; Ha'penny Bridge in Dublin; and Big Damn Bridge in Little Rock, Arkansas - we can classify the elegance and beauty of the city's pedestrian crossings as cutting-edge standards of modern architecture.
We can also say that no cost was spared in building some of the finest footbridges as they were all built to be accessible to disabled and other mobility-impaired people with the provision of access lifts and long ramps.
Safety is also given paramount importance as all footbridges are equipped with guard rails to reduce the risk of pedestrians falling. The structures are also wide and there is always good lighting.
However, some people prefer to walk across a busy road rather than take a few steps to climb and go down a pedestrian bridge. Many have died, over the years, because of this recklessness.
Designers, engineers, builders and construction workers have dedicated great effort to build Dubai's footbridges. The next time we use one to safely cross the street, we may perhaps take a few moments to appreciate the design or take a scenic interest. If it's safe to do so, we can also take some snaps to promote these structures and get our best shots like these pictures we are presenting.
- angel@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE
• Dubai