|
|
Bridges are more than just pathways; they are symbols of human progress and ingenuity. Some are designed to blend into nature, like India’s living root bridges, while others connect entire continents, like the massive suspension bridge linking Europe and Asia. However, China has taken bridge-building to a whole new level with the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge—an engineering marvel that holds the record for the longest bridge in the world.
A Bridge That Defies Limits
Stretching an incredible 164.8 kilometers (102.4 miles), this bridge plays a crucial role in China’s high-speed railway network. It connects Shanghai and Nanjing, two major cities, while crossing a variety of landscapes, including rice paddies, rivers, lakes, and urban areas.
The bridge runs parallel to the Yangtze River and maintains an average height of 100 meters (328 feet). In some places, it rises even higher—up to 150 meters (492 feet)—so that ships can pass underneath. What makes it even more impressive is that it is not just one type of bridge. Some sections are supported by concrete pillars (a viaduct), while others use strong cables stretched from towers (a cable-stayed bridge).
A Bridge Within a Bridge
Believe it or not, within this record-breaking bridge is another record-breaker. A section of the bridge called the Langfang-Qingxian viaduct is so long—114 kilometers (70.8 miles)—that it ranks as the second-longest bridge in the world. This means China has built both the longest and second-longest bridges in a single project, showcasing its ambition and engineering capabilities.
Fast Construction, Strong Foundation
Despite its enormous size, the bridge was completed in just four years, opening in 2011. The total cost was a staggering $8.5 billion, or about $51 million per kilometer. Constructing a bridge of this scale required hundreds of thousands of tonnes of steel and roughly 11,500 concrete pillars. Just one part of the bridge, the section crossing Yangcheng Lake in Suzhou, needed 2,000 pillars alone.
Built to Last
Even though it was built quickly, the bridge was designed to endure extreme conditions. It can withstand earthquakes, powerful typhoons, and floods. Engineers even designed it to survive a direct hit from a 300,000-ton navy vessel! With a lifespan estimated to be over 100 years, the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge is built to serve generations to come.
Cutting Travel Time in Half
Before the bridge was built, the train journey from Ningbo to Jiaxing took approximately four hours and thirty minutes. Thanks to this bridge and the new high-speed railway, the same trip now takes just two hours. This upgrade has not only made travel more convenient but also boosted trade and corporate efficiency, driving economic growth. Faster travel has strengthened connections between communities and created better opportunities for economic expansion.
A Unique Tourist Attraction
While the bridge was primarily designed to improve transportation, it has also become a popular tourist destination. As the train glides across lakes, fields, and cityscapes, passengers are treated to breathtaking views. This scenic journey offers a fresh perspective on China’s diverse landscapes, making it an unforgettable experience.
