The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge in southwest China has successfully completed a five-day load test, clearing the way for its official opening in September 2025.

The suspension bridge, which now holds the record as the tallest in the world, was subjected to a series of static and dynamic trials between August 21 and 25 to assess its strength and stability.

As part of the test, engineers drove 96 trucks, weighing a combined 3,300 tonnes, across different sections of the bridge to simulate heavy traffic. The results showed the bridge’s structural performance met and in some areas exceeded international safety standards.

Standing 625 metres above the Beipan River, the bridge overtakes the Duge Bridge to become the tallest bridge ever built. It stretches 2,890 metres in length with a main span of 1,420 metres, making it one of the largest suspension bridges in the world.

Construction began in January 2022, and the final steel segment was hoisted into place by January 2025, bringing the three-year project to completion.

According to the BBC, authorities have confirmed that the bridge will open to traffic in late September, drastically cutting travel time across the Huajiang Grand Canyon from two hours to just one minute.

The project is expected to boost connectivity, tourism, and economic development in the region, while standing as a landmark achievement in modern bridge engineering. (Nigerian Tribune)