This bridge not only showcases China’s extraordinary infrastructure-building capabilities but also brings prosperity to the local population.
Aizhai Bridge in China.
Eleven years ago, Aizhai Bridge in central China was officially opened to traffic. This bridge spans the Dehang Gorge, connecting the G65 Baotou–Guangzhou Expressway through Hunan Province, China. Notably, it was the bridge connecting the two longest tunnels in the world at the time of its inauguration in 2012.
Among the 400 highest bridges in the world, Aizhai is the fifth longest in terms of span. The main span of the bridge, which connects two mountain ranges, measures 1,146 meters. Additionally, the bridge boasts a height of 336 meters from the valley floor to the bridge deck.
The total cost of the project is $610 million. (Photo: Xinhua News Agency).
The construction began in October 2007. The construction teams faced numerous challenges over the five years it took to complete this project, including complex geographical conditions and resource shortages. The total cost of the project was $610 million (approximately 14.8 trillion VND), with the Asian Development Bank providing a loan of $208 million. This funding was used to build 64 kilometers of expressway, with two-thirds of that distance being tunnels and the Aizhai Bridge.
Engineers responsible for the project noted that the main cables of the Aizhai Bridge have a diameter of 85 cm with 169 steel wires. The entire cable-stayed system spans 1,000 meters and weighs up to 8,000 tons.
The main cables of Aizhai Bridge have a diameter of 85 cm with 169 steel wires. (Photo: Getty Images).
This structure spans an ancient rural area near Hunan Province.
Perhaps the most interesting aspect of this bridge, apart from its record-breaking numbers, is its location. This modern structure spans an ancient rural area near Hunan Province. The tunnel cuts through thousands of meters of rock and leads to the bridge. The soaring suspension cables stretching for a thousand meters in the mist can overwhelm many travelers. Additionally, there is a glass walkway on the bridge for visitors to experience.
Since its completion, Aizhai Bridge has attracted many tourists.
The travel time from Jishou City to Chadong often takes more than four hours by road. However, with the Aizhai Bridge, this journey has been shortened to less than one hour. Therefore, this project is immensely beneficial for local residents and tourists.
Since its completion, Aizhai Bridge has attracted a large number of visitors. In addition to tourists, many thrill-seekers visit to experience the excitement. Local authorities and surrounding residents have discovered ways to integrate transportation and tourism to develop the economy.
As the number of tourists continues to rise, once-poor villages now have the opportunity to sell agricultural products such as vegetables, fruits, tea, handicrafts, as well as accommodation and dining services for visitors.
Among the 400 highest bridges in the world, Aizhai is the fifth longest. (Photo: Quirky China News/Rex Features).
