China’s Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge Declared Safe After 3,360-Tonne Load Test

Last Updated:August 26, 2025, 17:39 IST

The trucks moved slowly across the span and were later stationed at designated spots to simulate various stress conditions.

The official inauguration is scheduled for September. (Photo Source: X)

China’s Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge, the tallest bridge in the world, has successfully passed its final static load test before being opened to the public. Stretching across the dramatic karst mountains of Guizhou Province in southwest China, the massive structure has been described by engineers as an “unprecedented engineering feat."

The bridge, which began construction in January 2022, towers 625 meters from deck to water—making it the tallest bridge on Earth. Its central span measures 1,420 meters, and its total length extends to 2,890 meters. With this achievement, Guizhou further cements its status as “the world’s bridge museum," as the province now houses more than 30,000 bridges, including the three tallest globally.

Trucks put the bridge to the test

Between August 21 and 25, the bridge underwent rigorous safety checks in the form of a static load test. Ninety-six heavy trucks, each weighing about 35 tonnes, were driven onto the bridge in stages, bringing the total load to approximately 3,360 tonnes.

The trucks moved slowly across the span and were later stationed at designated spots to simulate various stress conditions. To measure the bridge’s performance, more than 400 sensors were installed across the main span, towers, cables, and suspenders. These recorded even the slightest shifts during the test.

Engineers confirmed that the bridge successfully met all safety requirements, clearing the final hurdle before its official opening to traffic in September.

Challenges in construction

Project manager Wu Zhaoming, from Guizhou Transportation Investment Group Co., Ltd., noted that the construction team faced multiple challenges during the project. These included controlling temperatures during massive concrete pours, securing steep canyon slopes, and managing the region’s fierce winds.

Despite these obstacles, the project was completed in record time and is now recognised as the largest span bridge ever built in mountainous terrain.

A landmark for the future

With the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge ready to open, China adds yet another marvel to its long list of engineering triumphs. Beyond easing regional transportation, the bridge is expected to boost local tourism and development, reinforcing Guizhou’s reputation as a global hub of bridge engineering.

The official inauguration is scheduled for September, when the world’s tallest bridge will finally open to public use.

Delhi, India, India

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