Imagine, for a moment, Beijing without the \u7389\u8713\u6865. Chaos. Gridlock. A transportation nightmare. But here it stands a testament to innovative engineering and urban planning.
The \u7389\u8713\u6865 isn’t just a bridge. It’s a complex interchange that masterfully untangles traffic flow in southeastern Beijing. This colossal structure elegantly spans the Second Ring Road, the Beijing-Harbin Railway, the Beijing-Tianjin intercity railway, the South Moat, and the North Moat Road.
Think of it as a multi-layered cake. The \u7389\u8713\u6865 comprises two main bridges. There are four approach bridges on the north and south sides. Six culvert bridges exist, along with nine access bridges. Two cross-river bridges and three railway underpass bridges complete the ensemble. Its total bridge area covers approximately 25,000 square meters.
Originally called Puhuangyu Bridge during its construction phase, the \u7389\u8713\u6865 earned its current name because its shape resembles a jade silkworm. Construction began in September 1987. It was completed and opened to traffic in December 1988.
The \u7389\u8713\u6865 boasts a three-layer design. This allows for smooth transitions between different traffic directions. Motor vehicles and non-motor vehicles travel on separate lanes. The interchange uses a unique method where access roads diverge from the main road.
The bridge’s main thoroughfare runs north-south. It crosses the South Moat. Then, it soars over the Beijing-Tianjin-Harbin Railway. Next, it traverses the Second Ring Road heading south. It finally meets the South Third Ring Road at Liujiakan Bridge.
From Tian Tan East Road going south over the Moat Bridge lies Puhuangyu Road. At the intersection of the South Second Ring Road and Puhuangyu Road, this silkworm-shaped overpass stands. This is the \u7389\u8713\u6865.
Did you know that this bridge covers 237 acres? It serves as a crucial transportation hub. It links the city with the southeastern suburbs. The entire structure comprises 21 bridges. The main overpass is 493 meters long and 26.4 meters wide.
Look closely at the streamlined design. The ramps on either side of the main road connect the Second Ring Road. They merge the upper and lower three-layer bridge system. From above, the illuminated \u7389\u8713\u6865 resembles a silkworm ready to take flight. It adds vibrancy to Beijing’s southern landscape.
However, the \u7389\u8713\u6865 has seen its share of tragedy. In April 2014, a person jumped from the bridge. They landed on the Beijing-Tianjin intercity railway tracks. The incident caused delays on the intercity railway. Afterward, iron fences were installed near the railway.
As we conclude our visit to the \u7389\u8713\u6865, remember that this isn’t just concrete and steel. It’s a vital artery in Beijing’s transportation network. It embodies innovation, connectivity, and the constant flow of city life.