World's highest bridge opens to traffic in China

September 28, 2025 / 11:44 PM

Sharjah24 - AFP: China inaugurated the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge on Sunday, an engineering marvel that now holds the record as the world’s highest bridge. The structure rises 625 meters (2,051 feet) above a river and gorge in Guizhou province, surpassing the Beipanjiang Bridge, also in Guizhou, which previously held the record at 565 meters.

A spectacular ceremony

Live drone footage broadcast by state media showed vehicles crossing the colossal bridge, with its blue towers partially shrouded in clouds. Crowds, including engineers and local officials, gathered to celebrate, expressing pride in the achievement.

Transforming regional transport

According to Zhang Yin, head of the provincial transport department, the bridge reduces travel time across the gorge from two hours to just two minutes. She highlighted that the opening will significantly improve regional connectivity and stimulate economic and social development.

Engineering and construction feat

The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge, with a 1,420-meter main span, is the world’s largest-span bridge built in a mountainous area, state media reported. The project took over three years to complete, reflecting China’s massive infrastructure investments during decades of rapid economic growth and urbanization.

Guizhou: land of bridges

Guizhou province, known for its rugged terrain, is home to thousands of bridges. Nearly half of the world’s 100 highest bridges are located there, underlining the region’s reliance on engineering innovation.

Global context

While the Huajiang Bridge is the highest in terms of clearance above the ground, the tallest bridge by structural height remains France’s Millau Viaduct, which stands at 343 meters.