Did you know that the Lixinsha Bridge stands as a vital artery connecting Sanmin Island to Guangzhou? It is also known as Lixindao Bridge, Sanmin Island Bridge, or Hongqili Second Bridge. Today, we will delve into the story of this crucial structure, exploring its history.
The Lixinsha Bridge stretches 787 meters long. It is 9.8 meters wide. The bridge’s design includes a single carriageway. Sadly, it lacks a pedestrian walkway. The bridge incorporates a main navigation hole. Two secondary navigation holes allow watercrafts to pass.
Completed in April 1994, the Lixinsha Bridge quickly became essential for Sanmin Island. It is the island’s only land connection. It even carries the island’s water supply pipeline.
However, the story of the Lixinsha Bridge has not been without its challenges. In 2009, the bridge underwent reinforcement to increase its load capacity. By 2019, inspections revealed severe structural deterioration. It was then classified as a Category 4 bridge. Authorities restricted usage to vehicles weighing less than 15 tonnes.
Rectification and reinforcement works took place in 2020. Following reinspection, it received a Category 2 rating. Vehicles up to 20 tonnes could once again use the bridge.
In October 2021, assessments led to the decision to add anti-collision measures. These were completed in December 2022.
Tragedy struck on February 22, 2024. A cargo barge collided with a bridge pier. This caused part of the deck to fracture and collapse. Repair works concluded on May 23, 2024. The Lixinsha Bridge was certified for use on June 12. It reopened to traffic on June 22.
The Hongqili Waterway is crucial to the area. The Lixinsha Bridge is the main passage connecting the Nansha Economic Development Zone with Sanmin Island. The island is home to over 9,000 residents. They heavily rely on the bridge for travel. They also need it to transport agricultural produce.
Five men were lauded for their heroic actions following the bridge fracture. Huang Fulin, a local farmer, first discovered the accident. He was riding his motorcycle when he saw a thick fog and felt nervous. He stopped just 20 meters from the broken bridge.
Huang flashed his lights and shouted to stop an oncoming truck. The truck driver, Wang Guoliang, a retired veteran, called the police. He parked his truck horizontally. This blocked the route to Sanmin Island.
Huang reported the accident to police officers Guo Zhenzhao and Huang Biwei. They placed traffic cones on the road. Tang Qunhui, intercepted vehicles from the opposite side. He posted a video on WeChat to warn others. His friend saw the post and alerted family and friends. These five men were awarded for their bravery in an emergency.
The story of Lixinsha Bridge is a story of resilience. It highlights a community’s dependence on infrastructure. It also underscores the quick thinking of everyday heroes. As you stand here, reflect on the Lixinsha Bridge. It is more than just a crossing. It’s a lifeline.