Chongqing - In the bustling heart of downtown Chongqing, high above the city streets, workers like Wang Fugui are weaving a tapestry of progress, one glass wall at a time. Towering over the landscape is the Jiefangbei Book City Mixed-use Project, a dynamic complex destined to become a landmark in the Jiefangbei Central Business District.

Wang Fugui, a skilled artisan in the art of constructing curtain walls, orchestrates the assembly of the building’s exterior with precision. “Frame-supported glass is like a coat on the outer side of the building,” he explains, emphasizing the intricate dance these workers perform daily, suspended in the air like modern-day Spidermen.

The Jiefangbei Book City Mixed-use Project stands at a staggering 300 meters, comprising a 65-storey tower block, a 12-storey business skirt building, and a 7-storey underground garage. As Wang and his comrades meticulously place the 5200 units of glass covering 53 thousand square meters, they walk the fine line between craftsmanship and courage.

This job, Wang clarifies, is not for the faint-hearted. Workers must be under 55, undergo rigorous physical examinations, and be free from high blood pressure or cardiovascular diseases. It’s a job that demands both skill and resilience.

As rain pours in Chongqing’s summer, Wang’s attention turns to detail. On the 52nd floor, after securing the glass in place, he fastens his safety belt and walks on the edge of the 300-meter high altitude. His eyes wander to the distant Jiangbei Grand Theatre, a testament to his previous contributions to the city.

Proudly hailing from Chongqing’s Kaizhou District, Wang reflects on the changes he’s witnessed. “I’m so proud that I can make some contribution to my hometown as a Chongqing citizen,” he says. The city has undergone a metamorphosis, with high-rise buildings punctuating the skyline, attracting more tourists. Now, Wang is dedicated to completing the Jiefangbei Book City, adding another jewel to the city’s crown.

Scheduled for completion in 2024, the Jiefangbei Book City project is not just a building; it’s a testament to Chongqing’s evolution. A blend of commercial retail, offices, and a fashion culture experience center, it promises a unique 24-hour bookstore experience, ushering in a new era of cultural consumption in Chongqing. As Wang Fugui and his colleagues continue their work, they are not just constructing a building; they are shaping the narrative of a city on the rise.

(Liu Meihui, as an intern, also contributed to this article.)