1. Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge (China)
Stretching an astounding 164.8 kilometers (102.4 miles), the Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge is the longest bridge in the world. It forms a crucial part of the Beijing–Shanghai High-Speed Railway, linking two major economic powerhouses in China. Built across a landscape of rice paddies, canals, rivers, and lakes, the bridge showcases the complexity of navigating natural terrain. Construction employed over 10,000 workers and was completed in just four years, opening in 2011. Its elevated structure is designed to withstand earthquakes and typhoons, a testament to cutting-edge Chinese engineering. Besides its technical feats, the bridge stands as a symbol of China’s high-speed rail revolution.
2. Changhua–Kaohsiung Viaduct (Taiwan)
At 157.3 kilometers (97.8 miles), this viaduct supports the Taiwan High-Speed Rail and holds the title of the second-longest bridge globally. It connects the cities of Changhua and Kaohsiung, enabling trains to traverse vast stretches of the island swiftly. Designed with seismic activity in mind, the bridge can endure major earthquakes and allows trains to stop safely in emergencies. Its construction marked a milestone in Taiwan’s modernization and infrastructure development. Elevated over rice fields and urban areas alike, the viaduct harmonizes advanced transit with local geography. Its resilience and efficiency continue to support economic growth and daily commutes in Taiwan.
3. Tianjin Grand Bridge (China)
Measuring 113.7 kilometers (70.6 miles), the Tianjin Grand Bridge is part of the Beijing–Shanghai High-Speed Railway, like its longer counterpart. It traverses urban and rural areas, threading through cities and countryside in Tianjin province. This bridge minimizes land use disruptions by staying elevated above farms, waterways, and infrastructure. Completed in 2010, it exemplifies the scale and ambition of Chinese transportation infrastructure. Engineers designed the bridge to handle high-speed trains moving at up to 300 km/h, ensuring smooth, safe travel. It’s not just a bridge—it’s a backbone of regional mobility in Northern China.
4. Cangde Grand Bridge (China)
Ranking fourth at 105.8 kilometers (65.8 miles), the Cangde Grand Bridge supports the same high-speed line as Danyang–Kunshan and Tianjin. Built to resist seismic activity, it uses a dense array of piers—over 3,000—to ensure structural stability. Its route covers plains and wetland areas, where traditional rail lines would be less viable. Despite its size, it blends subtly into the surrounding landscape, elevated above human and natural activity. Completed in 2010, it stands as a quiet workhorse in China’s railway network. Its design prioritizes safety, endurance, and long-term performance.
5. Weinan Weihe Grand Bridge (China)
At 79.7 kilometers (49.5 miles), this bridge crosses the Wei River twice and numerous other smaller rivers and roads. It is a part of the Zhengzhou–Xi’an High-Speed Railway, cutting travel time between the two cities dramatically. Construction of the bridge required advanced geotechnical planning due to the soft soils and river systems it spans. Opened in 2010, the bridge reflects China’s strategic focus on linking its interior cities. It combines functionality with elegance, supported by hundreds of evenly spaced pillars. The Weinan Weihe Grand Bridge is a lifeline for central China, enhancing both economic and social connectivity.
6. Bang Na Expressway (Thailand)
Unique among this list, the Bang Na Expressway is both a bridge and a highway, stretching 54 kilometers (33.5 miles) across Bangkok’s sprawling urban landscape. Completed in 2000, it was the longest bridge in the world at the time. Unlike rail bridges, this massive structure supports a six-lane elevated highway built to alleviate traffic congestion. It was constructed using precast concrete segments, showcasing efficient modern construction techniques. The bridge runs parallel to Bang Na-Trat Highway, hovering above ground to preserve space and urban infrastructure below. It remains a vital transport artery in one of Southeast Asia’s busiest cities.
7. Beijing Grand Bridge (China)
This bridge spans 48.2 kilometers (29.9 miles) and also supports the Beijing–Shanghai High-Speed Railway. It connects Beijing to the southern city of Langfang, easing regional traffic and fostering economic integration. The bridge is a marvel of efficiency, built using prefabricated segments to accelerate construction timelines. Though not the longest in the country, its importance lies in connecting the capital with other major cities. Its elevated tracks allow for minimal disruption to urban and agricultural areas it traverses. The Beijing Grand Bridge exemplifies China’s strategy of sustainable, high-speed urban connectivity.
8. Lake Pontchartrain Causeway (USA)
The longest bridge over water in the Western Hemisphere, the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway measures 38.4 kilometers (23.8 miles). Located in Louisiana, it connects the cities of Mandeville and Metairie across Lake Pontchartrain. Built in the 1950s and expanded in the 1960s, it consists of two parallel bridges and serves thousands of commuters daily. Despite being decades old, it remains structurally sound thanks to continuous upgrades and maintenance. The bridge is famed for its long, horizon-less span where drivers often feel like they’re floating over water. It’s an iconic piece of American civil engineering and a lifeline for the region.
9. Line 1 Metro Wuhan Bridge (China)
A notable entry, this 37.8-kilometer (23.5-mile) bridge carries Line 1 of the Wuhan Metro, China’s first elevated metro bridge of this magnitude. It connects key districts of Wuhan, enhancing mobility across the Yangtze River. Unlike intercity bridges, this one is deeply embedded in the urban fabric and designed for frequent metro service. Opened in the early 2000s, it paved the way for similar urban transit infrastructure across China. Its streamlined design reflects Wuhan’s growth as a major transport hub. It continues to serve millions of passengers annually with efficiency and safety.
10. Manchac Swamp Bridge (USA)
Located in Louisiana, the Manchac Swamp Bridge is one of the longest bridges in the U.S., measuring 36.7 kilometers (22.8 miles). It carries Interstate 55 across the swampy wetlands of southeastern Louisiana. Completed in 1979, the bridge is built on concrete piles driven deep into the swamp bed. Elevated above a sensitive ecological zone, it minimizes environmental impact while providing a crucial transport link. Drivers often describe the eerie beauty of gliding above the vast, green wetlands. It’s both an engineering triumph and a scenic route through one of America’s most unique landscapes.
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