Newly Constructed Hongqi Bridge in China Collapses Due to Geological Instability: No Casualties Reported

The newly built Hongqi Bridge in China's Sichuan province experienced a partial collapse on Tuesday (Nov 11), as reported by Chinese state media. The incident sent massive amounts of concrete crashing into the river below and created a substantial dust cloud, with striking footage of the collapse becoming widely shared across social media platforms.

This 758-meter bridge, which formed part of a national highway linking central China to Tibet, had been closed the previous day after inspectors discovered concerning cracks and ground movement, according to information provided by local authorities to Reuters.

The dramatic collapse was captured on video, showing the structure giving way in what appeared to be a controlled area, as authorities had already restricted access following safety concerns.

Fortunately, no casualties were reported in the incident. Initial investigations point to geological instability in the mountainous terrain as the primary cause of the collapse.

Following the incident, officials immediately sealed off the bridge and launched a comprehensive technical investigation to determine whether design flaws or construction issues might have contributed to the structural failure.

According to Sichuan Daily, safety concerns first emerged during a routine inspection conducted Monday at 5:25 pm local time on the right bank section of the Hongqi Bridge in Maerkang city. This discovery prompted authorities to activate emergency protocols and evacuate the area. Chinese state media outlets reported that the actual collapse occurred around 3:00 pm local time near the G317 national highway.

The impressive structure, situated near the Shuangjiangku Hydropower Station and dam, stood approximately 625 meters above the gorge floor. Construction had only recently been completed earlier this year, with the bridge designed to improve transportation between Sichuan and the Tibetan Plateau. It had been operational for just two months, having opened to traffic in September.

China Daily reports that officials have not yet announced when the highway might reopen to traffic as investigations continue into the cause of the collapse.