Chongqing - The Huangjuetuo Yangtze River Bridge of Chongqing is currently in full swing construction set to become the world's largest span road-rail dual-use suspension bridge once completed.
Li Hongwei, the Project Leader, tirelessly shuttles between Jiangbei and Nan'an Districts to expedite the bridge's opening, enhancing convenience for residents.
Li Hongwei, the Project Leader, devoted himself to constructing the Huangjuetuo Yangtze River Bridge with other workers. (Photo/Liu Li)
Over 700 dedicated project managers and technical workers have propelled the construction forward amid Chongqing's sweltering August. The main tower steadily rises, and the entire bridge project progresses smoothly.
Early each morning, Project Leader Li Hongwei inspects the smart exhibition hall, where all construction data is meticulously collected and stored. It provides a comprehensive overview of multiple construction sites. Subsequently, he visits the steel processing plant to ensure the precision and quality of steel cage processing. The factory's stifling heat doesn't deter his dedication to the project.
Stretching 1,260 meters, the Huangjuetuo Yangtze River Bridge stands as the world's largest span road-rail dual-use steel truss suspension bridge under construction. Its upper tier boasts a two-way, six-lane urban expressway, while the lower tier reserves space for the planned third phase of rail transit Line 18, flanked by two-way, four-lane urban trunk roads and sidewalks.
Du Chunlin, the chief designer, explains that the bridge's main tower takes the shape of a city gate, a symbol dear to Chongqing residents given the city's mountainous terrain. It also signifies a welcoming "gateway," reflecting Chongqing's openness and inclusivity, promising a prosperous future.
Li Hongwei visits the steel processing plant to ensure the precision and quality of steel cage processing early in the morning. (Photo/Liu Li)
The project's challenges include managing high temperatures, variable weather, and the Yangtze River's summer flood season. To overcome these obstacles, Li Hongwei's team implemented two shifts for construction workers and streamlined processes, ensuring the critical phases proceed without interruption.
Connecting Jiangbei and Nan'an Districts, the bridge's simultaneous construction on both riverbanks demands frequent travel for Li Hongwei. While the sites appear close, the 30-minute drive underscores the importance of his presence. He hopes the bridge will soon eliminate detours for residents.
With over 10,000 bridges, Chongqing is aptly known as the "Bridge Capital of China." Breaking world records was not the intention but rather a solution to the city's needs. The harmonious coexistence of cars and rail transit on these bridges embodies the essence of the "Bridge Capital." As the city expands, more dual-use bridges will emerge as iconic landmarks, defining Chongqing's urban landscape.
The effect diagram of Huangjuetuo Yangtze River Bridge. (Photo/Chongqing Municipal Housing and Urban-Rural Development Commission)
Upon completion, the Huangjuetuo Yangtze River Bridge, designed with an "ancient city gate" motif, will resonate with the nearby Cuntan Yangtze River Bridge's "Chinese knot" design. Together, they will craft a unique cultural narrative for China, celebrating engineering marvels and cultural symbolism.