Taiwan has opened the world’s longest single-mast cable-stayed bridge – a 920m structure designed to withstand earthquakes of magnitude seven and above.
The Danjiang Bridge spans the mouth of the Tamsui River near Taipei and connects Bali District with New Taipei City.
Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, the bridge’s main span is 450 meters, about 30 meters longer than RussiaYugra Bridge which held the world record since 2000.
Officials say the new crossing will ease chronic traffic congestion by connecting major highways and freeways on both sides of the river.
The Taiwan Highway Bureau confirmed that the bridge was specially designed for the island’s seismic conditions due to its location on the boundary of active tectonic plates.
State-of-the-art sensors are installed throughout the structure to monitor wind forces, cable stress and the overall structural integrity of the bridge in real time.
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If the readings exceed safe limits, the system automatically alerts the bridge control center so that traffic restrictions can be imposed to reduce pressure on the crossing.
The striking single-pillar bridge design was developed to maximize structural performance while preserving sunset views over the Tamsu estuary.
Its sculptural concrete mast rises 200 meters into the air and is deliberately designed to remain as thin as possible while supporting the large central span during extremes. WEATHER and seismic events.
Dedicated pedestrian crossings and cycle lanes are also included, along with provisions for a future extension of the Danhai light rail network across the river.
Although the bridge’s main structure was completed in October of last year, crews have spent the past few months laying asphalt and installing lighting, sound barriers and additional road equipment ahead of its public opening.
Plans for the Danjiang Bridge were first presented almost 30 years ago, but were repeatedly delayed by environmental reviews, redesigns and failed bidding processes before construction finally began in 2019.
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