China has opened a groundbreaking new bridge. Specifically, this engineering milestone achieved global recognition immediately. The Tongling Yangtze River Third Bridge opened Thursday. It spans China’s longest river in Anhui Province. Furthermore, the structure combines two bridge technologies uniquely.
The bridge features both cable-stayed and suspension systems. Additionally, it carries road and rail traffic simultaneously. Different levels accommodate each transportation type. Consequently, this engineering milestone achieved world-first status. No other bridge uses this dual design.
Construction finished six months ahead of schedule. Moreover, workers completed the 8.78 billion yuan project efficiently. The bridge becomes the eleventh Yangtze crossing. Therefore, it improves national and provincial highway networks significantly. Regional transportation capacity increases dramatically.
The main span measures 988 meters long. Importantly, this engineering milestone achieved kilometer-class status. It ranks first globally for similar bridge types. Furthermore, the design minimizes river navigation impacts. Ships can pass underneath easily.
Project managers explained the technical advantages. For instance, the suspension system spans the river completely. This avoids mid-river support pillars. Consequently, flood control safety improves considerably. Main towers stand safely on riverbanks.
The bridge supports heavy loads effectively. Its steel truss girder provides strength. Similarly, this engineering milestone achieved structural innovation. The design separates public and rail traffic securely.
The project aligns with national development strategies. It supports Belt and Road Initiative goals. Additionally, Yangtze River Economic Belt benefits directly. Regional integration advances through this infrastructure.
Anhui Province gains important transportation links. The bridge appears in national planning documents. Specifically, the Cross-River Channel Layout Plan includes it. This covers the 2020-2035 period comprehensively.
Economic benefits are expected widely. Transportation efficiency will improve markedly. Similarly, logistics costs should decrease correspondingly. Regional development could accelerate consequently.
Engineering experts praise the achievement. They note the innovative hybrid approach. Therefore, this engineering milestone achieved technical excellence. Future bridges may follow this model.
Environmental considerations were addressed properly. The design protects river ecosystems. Moreover, navigation channels remain unobstructed. Flood control systems stay secure.
The bridge represents Chinese engineering progress. It demonstrates construction capability clearly. Ultimately, this engineering milestone achieved international attention. Global infrastructure development learns from it.

