Hongqi Bridge Collapse in China’s Sichuan Province

A newly completed highway bridge in China’s Sichuan province suffered a dramatic collapse on 11 November 2025 after landslides struck a weakened mountainside above the structure. The Hongqi bridge, an important link between Sichuan, central China, and the Tibetan Plateau, had been closed hours before the incident due to detected ground instability, preventing casualties.

How the Collapse Occurred

The 758-metre Hongqi bridge in Maerkang gave way when a series of landslides hit the terrain overlooking the span. Video from the scene showed debris crashing onto the structure, causing a section of the bridge deck to break apart and plunge into the river below. Dust and rubble filled the valley as the approach bridge and roadbed were destroyed.

Warnings Before the Incident

Engineers inspecting the area had noticed cracks on nearby slopes and roads on Monday afternoon. Shifts in the mountain terrain signalled escalating geological stress. Authorities immediately shut the bridge to traffic, citing a high risk of collapse. By Tuesday, the instability intensified, leading to the destructive landslides that struck the bridge.

Structural Background and Early Assessments

Completed earlier in the year by the Sichuan Road & Bridge Group, the Hongqi bridge was part of a national highway project designed to streamline transport across mountainous western China. Preliminary assessments indicate that while landslides triggered the collapse, underlying structural vulnerabilities may have aggravated the damage. Investigations are now focused on geological surveys, construction quality, and slope monitoring protocols.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The Hongqi bridge measured 758 metres and formed part of a major Sichuan–Tibet highway route.
• The bridge was closed before the collapse due to cracks and detected ground movement.
• Landslides from a weakening mountainside directly caused the failure.
• No casualties were reported due to early closure by local authorities.

Impact on Regional Connectivity

The collapse disrupts an essential corridor linking Sichuan with China’s interior regions and the Tibetan Plateau. The route plays a key role in passenger travel, freight transport, and regional development. Authorities are now assessing alternative routes and planning reconstruction while monitoring other vulnerable slopes in the mountainous region.