China has inaugurated the Changtai Yangtze River Bridge in Jiangsu province, setting a new global record as the world’s longest cable-stayed bridge. Spanning 10.3 kilometers (6.4 miles), the massive structure links the cities of Changzhou and Taizhou, reducing travel time across the Yangtze River from more than an hour to just 20 minutes.What makes the Changtai Bridge remarkable is its multi-purpose design. It is the first bridge in the world to integrate an expressway, a local road, and an intercity railway within the same structure. This innovative layout not only improves regional connectivity but also showcases China’s engineering ambition to combine efficiency with scale.The bridge is supported by striking 350-meter (1,148-foot) diamond-shaped towers, which anchor its distinctive side-by-side configuration. On one side runs a high-speed rail line capable of supporting trains at up to 200 km/h (124 mph), while the other accommodates vehicular traffic, making it a dual-function marvel.Construction of the Changtai Bridge took six years and pushed the limits of engineering. The project set multiple records, including the fastest caisson sinking and deployment of the world’s first intelligent 10,000-tonne crane. Engineers relied on advanced techniques such as satellite-guided crane systems and millimeter-level precision for deck installation, overcoming difficult challenges like soft, silty river foundations and an asymmetrical design.Officials say the bridge will play a vital role in boosting economic integration within the Yangtze River Delta, one of China’s most dynamic regions. It is expected to facilitate smoother passenger and cargo movement, further strengthening the country’s transportation network.With the completion of the Changtai Yangtze River Bridge, China continues to cement its global reputation as a leader in large-scale infrastructure, blending technological innovation with record-setting achievements.
China Opens World’s Longest Cable-Stayed Bridge in Jiangsu
