Longest bridge
📌 Types of Bridge “Longest” Records
1. Total length (any bridge type): Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge leads with ~165 km.
2. Road‑only structures: The Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge (~55 km) and Bang Na Expressway (~54 km) rank among the longest road-focused bridges.
3. Longest continuous over‑water span: The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway in Louisiana (~38 km) holds this distinct record .
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❓ Why are most of the longest bridges viaducts in China?
China’s expansive high-speed rail network crosses vast lowland terrain, rice fields, and flood zones. Elevated viaducts provide:
• Flood resilience: avoiding water-level issues in paddy areas.
• Speed and reliability: minimal grade changes and fewer interruptions.
• Efficiency: streamlined construction and maintenance for long-distance rail .
They’re not standalone structures like famous cable-stayed or suspension bridges—they’re engineered for the long haul.
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✅ In summary:
• The Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge is the world’s longest bridge overall at ~164.8 km for rail transit.
• Other top-ranking bridges include Taiwan’s Changhua–Kaohsiung Viaduct, and several massive Chinese high‑speed rail viaducts.
• Among road bridges, standout records go to the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge, Bang Na Expressway, and the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway.
Would you like to explore a particular bridge type further—like suspension spans or famous over‑water road crossings?