Bridges are an essential part of our transportation infrastructure. They are constructed to facilitate the movement of people and goods from one place to another. Over the centuries, several iconic bridges have been built around the world, but none are as awe-inspiring as the world’s highest bridges.
A bridge’s height is determined by its vertical distance from the base to the top of the tallest tower or pylon. In this article, we will discuss the highest bridges in the world, including their engineering feats and the unique challenges faced during their construction.
1. Duge Bridge
The Duge Bridge in China is the highest bridge in the world. It spans over 1,550 feet, and its tallest tower is a staggering 1,854 feet high. The bridge is located in the Guizhou province of China, and it took eight years to construct. The Duge Bridge spans a deep gorge, which presented unique engineering challenges during its construction. The bridge was completed in 2016, and it now connects the provinces of Yunnan and Guizhou.
2. Sidu River Bridge
The Sidu River Bridge in China is the second-highest bridge in the world, with a height of 1,627 feet. The bridge is located in the Hubei province of China, and it spans the Sidu River. It took four years to construct, and it was completed in 2009. The Sidu River Bridge has become a popular tourist attraction, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
3. Puli Bridge
The Puli Bridge in China is the third-highest bridge in the world, with a height of 1,591 feet. The bridge spans the Beipan River in the Guizhou province of China, and it was completed in 2021. The Puli Bridge is part of a larger infrastructure project aimed at improving transportation and communication in China.
4. Yachihe Bridge
The Yachihe Bridge in China is the fourth-highest bridge in the world, with a height of 1,437 feet. The bridge spans the Yachihu River, and it is located in the Guizhou province of China. The Yachihe Bridge was completed in 2011, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
5. Iya Valley Bridge
The Iya Valley Bridge in Japan is the fifth-highest bridge in the world, with a height of 1,279 feet. The bridge spans the Iya River, and it is located in a remote region of Japan. The Iya Valley Bridge was completed in 1982, and it has become a popular tourist attraction due to its unique location and stunning views.
6. Pont de Millau
The Pont de Millau in France is the highest bridge in Europe, with a height of 1,125 feet. The bridge spans the Tarn River, and it is located in the southern part of France. The Pont de Millau was completed in 2004, and it held the title of the highest bridge in the world until the Duge Bridge was completed in 2016.
7. Beipanjiang River 2009 Bridge
The Beipanjiang River 2009 Bridge in China is the seventh-highest bridge in the world, with a height of 1,200 feet. The bridge spans the Beipan River, and it is located in the Guizhou province of China. The Beipanjiang River 2009 Bridge was completed in 2009, and it is part of a larger infrastructure project aimed at improving transportation in the region.
8. Puente Baluarte
The Puente Baluarte in Mexico is the highest bridge in the Americas, with a height of 1,280 feet. The bridge spans the Baluarte River, and it is located in the northwestern part of Mexico. The Puente Baluarte was completed in 2012, and it is part of a larger highway project aimed at improving transportation and trade between Mexico and the United States.
9. Hegigio Gorge Pipeline Bridge
The Hegigio Gorge Pipeline Bridge in Papua New Guinea is the highest bridge in Oceania, with a height of 1,148 feet. The bridge spans the Hegigio River, and it is part of a pipeline project aimed at transporting natural gas from Papua New Guinea to Australia. The Hegigio Gorge Pipeline Bridge was completed in 2005, and it is an impressive engineering feat given its remote location.
10. Balinghe Bridge
The Balinghe Bridge in China is the tenth-highest bridge in the world, with a height of 1,214 feet. The bridge spans the Baling River, and it is located in the Guizhou province of China. The Balinghe Bridge was completed in 2009, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
In conclusion, the world’s highest bridges are some of the most impressive engineering feats of the modern era. These bridges offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and they have become popular tourist attractions in their respective regions. The construction of these bridges presented unique challenges, such as dealing with harsh weather conditions, mountainous terrain, and remote locations. Despite these challenges, these bridges stand as a testament to human engineering and will continue to inspire awe for generations to come.
