In the world of engineering marvels, bridges stand out as testament to human ingenuity and innovation. One such extraordinary structure has captured global attention, surpassing all others in length and grandeur. As of 2023, the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge holds the title of the longest bridge in the world with the total length of less than 164.8 km. In this article, we will know about the longest bridge in the world and the list of top-10 longest bridges in the world with their significant details.
World’s Longest Bridge 2023
The Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge holds the 2023 records as the world’s longest bridge, stretching an astounding 102.4 miles. A key segment of China’s high-speed rail between Beijing and Shanghai, this architectural marvel stands 100 feet high and involved the efforts of over 10,000 people during its construction. Passengers on the high-speed train are treated to breathtaking views of lowlands, lakes, rivers and rice paddies, making the journey as memorable as the bridge itself.
Key Features of the Longest Bridge in the World
Here are some of the key features of the longest bridge in the world:
- Length: Stretches an astonishing 102.4 miles (164.8 km), making it the longest bridge globally.
- Strategic Connection: Integral part of China’s high-speed rail network, facilitating swift travel between Beijing and Shanghai.
- Guinness Recognition: Unveiled on June 30, 2011, and officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the longest bridge in the world.
- Height: Towers at an impressive 100 feet (30 meters) above the ground, showcasing its monumental scale.
- Workforce: Involved the efforts of more than 10,000 individuals during its construction, highlighting the massive collaborative endeavor.
- Scenic View: Passengers on the high-speed train are treated to breathtaking vistas of lowlands, lakes, rivers and rice paddies, enhancing the travel experience.
- Architectural Achievement: Combines functionally with aesthetics, serving as a symbol of human ingenuity and engineering excellence.
Top-10 Longest Bridges in the World
Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge, with the total length of 164 km, holds the title of the longest bridge of the world, followed by Changhua-Kaohsiung Viaduct, Tianjin Grand Bridge and Cangde Grand Bridge.
Here is the list of top-10 longest bridges in the world:
| Longest Bridges in the World | ||||
| S. No. | Bridge | Length | Year | Country |
| 1. | Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge | 164.8 km | 2010 | China |
| 2. | Changhua-Kaosiung Viaduct | 157.3 km | 2004 | Taiwan |
| 3. | Tianjin Grand Bridge | 113.7 km | 2010 | China |
| 4. | Cangde Grand Bridge | 105.881 km | 2010 | China |
| 5. | Weinan Weihe Grand Bridge | 79.732 km | 2008 | China |
| 6. | Bang Na Expressway | 54 km | 2000 | Thailand |
| 7. | Beijing Grand Bridge | 48.153 km | 2010 | China |
| 8. | Metro Manila Skyway System | 39.2 km | 2021 | Philippines |
| 9. | Lake Pontchartrain Causeway | 38.442 km | 1956 | United States |
| 10. | Wuhan Metro Bridge | 37.77 km | 2009 | China |
Longest Bridge in the World – Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge
Length – 164.8 km
Location: China
Completed in Year: 2010
Type: High-speed rail
The Danyang Kunshan Grand Bridge stands as the world’s longest, spanning an impressive 164.8 kilometers (102.4 miles) along the Beijing–Shanghai High-Speed Railway, providing a crucial link between Shanghai and Nanjing in the Jiangsu region. With a construction cost totaling US$8.5 billion, this monumental structure was completed in 2011, serving as a testament to engineering prowess. Whether traversed by rail or road, the bridge seamlessly navigates valleys, solidifying its status as an unparalleled feat in infrastructure and connectivity.
World’s Second Longest Bridge – Changhua-Kaohsiung Viaduct
Length: 157.3 km
Completed in Year: 2004
Country: Taiwan
Type: High-speed rail
The Changhua-Kaosiung Viaduct, the world’s second-longest bridge, serves as a vital section of the Taiwan High-Speed Rail network. Extending 157,317 meters, it commenced operations in 2007, connecting Baguashan, Changhua Country, to Zuoying, Kaosiung, exemplifying a remarkable engineering achievement in Taiwan’s transportation infrastructure.
World’ Third Longest Bridge – Tianjin Grand Bridge
Length: 113.7 km
Completion in Year: 2010
Country: China
Type: High-speed rail
The Tianjin Grand Bridge, ranked as the world’s third-longest bridge, spans 113.7 kilometers, serving as a crucial component of the Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway. Opened in 2011, its innovative design features a raised trach layout, streamlining construction and enhancing efficiency by minimizing the need for numerous individual structures to cross railways and roads.
Fourth Longest Bridge of the World – Cangde Grand Bridge
Length: 105.881 km
Completion in Year: 2010
Country: China
Type: High-speed rail
Securing the fourth spot on our list of remarkable bridges in China’s Cangde Grand Bridge. As an integral segment of the Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway and completed in 2010, it proudly ranks as the world’s fourth-largest bridge. Stretching an impressive 105.881 km, this engineering marvel, fortified with 3092 piers, demonstrates resilience against seismic forces, underscoring its significance in global infrastructure.
Fifth Longest Bridge in the World – Weinan Weihe Grand Bridge
Length: 79.732 km
Completion in Year: 2008
Country: China
Type: High-speed rail
The Weinan Weihe Grand Bridge, ranked as the world’s fifth longest bridge, is a vital part of China’s Zhengzhou-Xi’an High-Speed Railway. Spanning 79.732 km, it elegantly crosses the Wei River twice and various waterways, highways and railways. Originally the longest upon completion in 2008, it now concedes, that title to newer bridges on the Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway.
Sixth Longest Bridge in the World – Bang Na Expressway
Length: 54 km
Completion in Year: 2000
Country: Thailand
Type: Expressway
The Bang Na Expressway, also known as the Burapha Withi Expressway, showcases Thailand’s engineering excellence. Completed in January 2000, this six-lane elevated highways spans 54 km, soaring above National Highway Route 34. Boasting international collaboration, its construction involved a remarkable 1,800,000 cubic meters of concrete. Holding the title of the world’s longest bridge from 2000 to 2008, it stands as a remarkable feat in infrastructure.
World’s Seventh Longest Bridge in the World – Beijing Grand Bridge
Length: 48.153 km
Completion in Year: 2010
Country: China
Type: High-speed rail
As part of the Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway network, the Beijing Grand Bridge is a noteworthy railway viaduct. Notably, China’s infrastructure prowess is evident with a remarkable 961,100 rail bridges as of 2021.
Eighth Longest Bridge in the World – Metro Manila Railway System
Length: 39.2 km
Completion in Year: 2021
Country: Philippines
Type: Expressway
The Metro Manila Skyway, or the Metro Manila Skyway System (MMSS), is the key expressway in Metro Manila, Philippines. This elevated highway, covering around 39.2 km, crucially links the North and South Luzon Expressways, offering access to Ninoy Aquino International Airport through the NAINA Expressway.
World’s Ninth Longest Bridge – Lake Pontchartrain Causeway
Length: 38.442 km
Completion in Year: 1956
Country: United States
Type: Highway
Opened in 1956, the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, fondly called ‘The Causeway,’ spans Louisiana with twin bridges offering breathtaking views. The middle section, where the land seemingly vanishes, provides a thrilling experience. Supported by 9,500 concrete pilings, this marvel includes a bascule over the navigation channel.
Tenth Longest Bridge in the World – Wuhan Metro Bridge
Length: 37.788 km
Completion in Year: 2009
Country: China
Type: Metro
As a segment of Wuhan’s elevated metro line, the Wuhan Metro Bridge holds the title of the longest continuous metro viaduct globally. Wuhan joined mainland China’s metro cities in 2004 with the inauguration of Line 1.
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