The Hongqi Bridge in Maerkang City, Sichuan, forms part of National Highway 317, a key route that links the province to Tibet. The roadway crossed a deep gorge carved out by the Dadu River and the reservoir backed up behind the Shuangjiangkou Dam.
Authorities later confirmed the structure failed because the surrounding rock had cracked and started to deform, undermining the support beneath the bridge and causing the entire section to fall through.
Warning signs were put in place, and traffic alerts were sent out across the region, according to Sichuan Daily, as local teams worked to keep people away from the danger zone.
The bridge itself had only been completed earlier this year, making the sudden failure even more concerning for residents and travelers who relied on the route.
Moments later, a landslide pushed part of the bridge off its supports, sending the entire section crashing into the dam’s reservoir below and kicking up a massive cloud of dust and debris.
The dramatic footage spread across social media soon afterward. Authorities later confirmed that no injuries were reported, thanks to the quick evacuation the night before.
China is known for building record-breaking bridges, and just earlier this year the country managed to surpass its own record for the highest bridge in the world.
The Huajiang Canyon Bridge in Guizhou stretches across the Beipan River as it winds through the steep and dramatic Huajiang Canyon.
This massive $280 million project has transformed local travel, cutting what used to be a 90-minute journey down to just 90 seconds, all while offering some of the most breathtaking views in the region.
Travelers crossing the structure now get an experience that combines convenience, speed, and scenery in one trip.
A calmer option is available too. Visitors can take in sweeping views of the canyon and surrounding countryside from a purpose-built viewing platform near the bridge.
Before this project, the tallest bridge record in China belonged to the Beipanjiang Bridge, which opened back in 2016 and held the title for several years.
China also holds the world record for the longest bridge. Jiangsu Province has claimed that title since 2010 with the Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge.
Stretching 164.8 kilometers long, the massive structure connects the Beijing–Shanghai High-Speed Railway between Danyang and Kunshan, making it a key part of China’s high-speed rail network.
