The tallest bridge in the world successfully passes its most unconventional trial: enduring the load of 96 trucks simultaneously
China has set another infrastructure record with the construction of the world’s tallest bridge, located in the rugged province of Guizhou in the Huajiang Canyon. This steel and concrete giant stands at 625 meters above the ground. Engineers conducted a unique test by filling the bridge with nearly a hundred trucks to assess its resilience.
A giant over the Beipan River
The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge surpasses the previous world record held by the Duge Bridge, with a height of 565 meters. The new bridge features two towers at 265 and 205 meters, 9,000-ton cables, and a suspension span of 1,420 meters, showcasing cutting-edge engineering.
Colossal figures in record time
Construction of the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge began in 2021 and was completed in just four years, using 439,000 cubic meters of concrete and 49,000 tons of steel. The bridge, with a six-lane highway, stands taller than two stacked Eiffel Towers and cost an estimated $280 million.
The test of the 96 trucks
To ensure its strength and ability to withstand earthquakes, 96 trucks were lined up on the suspension span for five consecutive days, exerting a 3,000-ton static weight. This load test confirmed the bridge’s durability and its ability to withstand seismic activity, a common occurrence in the region.
Beyond setting a record, the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge significantly reduces travel time across the canyon and enhances connectivity between rural and urban areas, contributing to the New Silk Road infrastructure. Equipped with sensors for real-time monitoring, the bridge serves as a dynamic civil engineering laboratory.
This monumental structure exemplifies China’s prowess in overcoming challenging topographical barriers with innovative engineering solutions. The scheduled opening of the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge in September will mark a historic achievement in bridge construction and revolutionize transportation for millions in one of China’s most mountainous regions.
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