A recently opened bridge in China’s southwestern Sichuan province partially gave way, sending a massive cloud of dust into the air. Yahoo!
A newly built bridge in China’s southwestern Sichuan province has partially collapsed, sending clouds of dust billowing into the air. Officials confirmed that no one was hurt in the incident, which occurred after landslides struck the area on Tuesday afternoon.
The 758-metre-long Hongqi Bridge had only recently opened to the public. However, authorities shut it down on Monday after cracks appeared on nearby slopes and sections of the road. The early closure likely prevented injuries or fatalities once the structure gave way.
Landslides Trigger the Collapse
Local officials said that conditions along the mountainside worsened quickly on Tuesday. The unstable terrain caused a series of landslides that damaged part of the bridge, bringing down a large section and filling the air with thick dust.
Witnesses described seeing chunks of rock and soil sliding down the hill before the bridge’s structure gave way. Videos shared by residents showed the partially destroyed span surrounded by debris, with one end still standing and the other submerged in dust.
Emergency teams rushed to the site shortly after the collapse to assess the situation and ensure the safety of nearby residents. Authorities have since closed off the area to prevent further accidents while experts inspect the remaining parts of the bridge.
Officials Launch Investigation
Engineers and local government officials are investigating what caused the slope to fail so soon after the bridge opened. They are examining the stability of the surrounding hills and checking whether recent weather conditions or construction issues contributed to the collapse.
In their initial statement, local authorities said heavy rain and geological shifts may have weakened the soil, increasing the risk of landslides. Mountainous regions like Sichuan are known for their rugged terrain and frequent natural hazards, including earthquakes and landslides.
Officials also confirmed that the Hongqi Bridge project had passed safety inspections before opening. The current investigation aims to determine whether the collapse was caused by natural factors or flaws in construction design.
No Injuries but Safety Concerns Rise
Although no casualties were reported, the collapse has raised concerns among residents about the safety of newly built infrastructure in the region. Local authorities have promised a full review of other nearby bridges and roads that could face similar risks.
Construction projects in mountainous parts of China often face challenges due to unstable slopes and frequent heavy rainfall. The Hongqi Bridge, which connects several rural communities, had been seen as a key link for transportation and trade in the area.
Officials said repairs and safety reinforcements would begin once experts complete their investigation. Until then, traffic will remain diverted to alternate routes.
