Pinglu Canal Project Targets September Completion

The new bridge extends the canal's length by 587 meters and increases the navigation clearance by 9.3 meters. According to engineer Yuan Minyang, the completion of this bridge marks the finalization of all 27 canal bridges within the Pinglu Canal project. Engineer Yuan Minyang stated the bridge extends 587 meters in length and has been raised by 9.3 meters to ensure navigation. The new bridges must have a clearance of at least 18 meters to accommodate 5,000-ton vessels. This replaces older, lower bridges that were positioned in the middle of the waterway, obstructing passage. This height and increased width allow vessels of up to 5,000 tons to pass through the canal. The project involved rebuilding or modifying previous structures that were too low or narrow for current shipping needs. Construction included widening bridge decks and increasing lanes to improve local traffic flow. A temporary bridge was utilized during the construction period to ensure continuous access. A temporary structure known as the Baotong Bridge, which facilitated citizen movement during the construction period, will now be gradually dismantled. The project aims to improve transportation for residents on both sides of the canal. An automated opening-closing bridge has been unveiled in China.