WATCH: Tel Aviv's landmark Maariv bridge demolished

Police set up viewing areas for spectators to watch controlled blasts as light rail construction gathers pace

Tel Aviv’s central Maariv overpass was demolished Friday morning in a controlled detonation to make way for construction of the light rail.

The destruction of the 39-year-old bridge, situated at a major junction in central Tel Aviv, snarled automobile traffic in an already congested city.

Transportation Minister Yisrael Katz pushed the detonation button at 6 a.m.

For those interested in watching the explosion of the Maariv Bridge, the police set up special areas to watch it safely as it was brought down.

Construction of the long-awaited subway system began earlier this month, with large traffic complications expected as major areas of the city are torn up to build stations and dig tunnels.

Police urge travelers to take public transportation instead of cars to help alleviate traffic during construction, which is projected to be completed in 2021.