Video Captures New Bridge Collapse in China
A newly constructed bridge in southwest China experienced a partial collapse on Tuesday, releasing large concrete sections into the air amidst a cloud of dust. The bridge, known as the Hongqi Bridge, spans 2,487 feet and links Sichuan province to Tibet as part of a national highway network.
Details of the Collapse
Authorities reported that the Hongqi Bridge was closed on Monday following the appearance of cracks on surrounding slopes and roads. The structure suffered a fracture and subsequent collapse during a landslide, according to officials from Ma’erkang, also referred to as Barkam in Tibetan.
Investigation Underway
Currently, there have been no casualties linked to this incident. An investigation into the cause of the collapse is ongoing, as this area is known for its seismic activity. Notably, Sichuan was the site of a devastating 7.9-magnitude earthquake in 2008, which resulted in the loss of over 69,000 lives.
Public Response and Infrastructure Investments
Videos of the collapse shared on Chinese social media platforms have been verified by NBC News. Construction on the Hongqi Bridge was completed earlier this year, contributing to China’s extensive infrastructure development initiatives, which include roads, railways, and bridges.
In September, China celebrated the opening of the world’s highest bridge in Guizhou province, highlighting the nation’s ambitious engineering projects. In addition, a highway bridge collapse in Shaanxi province in July 2024 claimed at least 11 lives, raising concerns about the safety of recently constructed infrastructure.
Summary of Key Details
- Bridge Name: Hongqi Bridge
- Location: Connecting Sichuan and Tibet
- Length: 2,487 feet
- Collapse Date: Tuesday
- Causal Factors: Landslide, pre-existing cracks
- Investigation Status: Ongoing
- Notable Incident: 2008 earthquake in Sichuan
