Bai Chay Bridge: An architectural marvel of Ha Long

Bai Chay Bridge is a remarkable example of Vietnam's contemporary engineering and architectural brilliance. With an impressive span of 2,487 meters, this cable-stayed bridge links the vibrant hubs of Hon Gai and Bai Chay.

Bai Chay Bridge, one of the icons of Halong (Source: Collected)

1. Facts about Bai Chay Bridge

With its towering pylons and expansive deck, Bai Chay Bridge not only streamlines transportation but also adds to the scenic beauty of Ha Long. Here's some essential information for tourists about Bai Chay Bridge:

• Location

Bai Chay Bridge's current position spans the Cua Luc River on National Highway 18A, connecting two central cultural and economic hubs of Quang Ninh, Hon Gai and Bai Chay.

• History

Construction began on May 18, 2003, designed by the Japan Bridge and Structure Institute (JBSI) and built by Shimizu, Sumitomo Mitsui, CIENCO 1, LICOGI, and Truong Son Construction Corporation. It was inaugurated on December 2, 2006, after a construction period of over 40 months.

• Size

The bridge stretches 2,487 meters in total length, with the main span measuring 903 meters across six continuous spans, including the longest span of 435 meters. It offers a navigational clearance of 50 meters, with the tallest tower rising 137.5 meters above sea level. 

The bridge deck is 25.5 meters wide, accommodating four lanes for H30 vehicles (360 cars, total weight 10,800 tons, with 10-meter separation), and includes two pedestrian lanes, each 2.5 meters wide, capable of handling up to 30,100 pedestrians. 

The central pylon towers stand at 90 meters tall. It is designed to withstand earthquakes (up to magnitude 7), wind storms (up to 50 m/s or 180 km/h), and temperature variations up to 15 degrees Celsius.

• Record

As of 2023, Bai Chay Bridge holds a notable world record with its central span of 435 meters, utilizing pre-stressed concrete box girders suspended from a central cable plane. The only comparable structure is France's Elom Bridge, which is 400 meters long, with the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in the United States ranking third at 366 meters.

Bai Chay Bridge vessel view from the bridge (Source: Collected) 

2. Unique architecture of Bai Chay Bridge

You will be amazed if you visit Quang Ninh and witness the 2,487-meter-long cable-stayed Bai Chay Bridge. The bridge, resembling a slender ribbon spanning the Cua Luc River, creates a vibrant spectacle in a narrow yet expansive space. Your eyes will surely be captivated by the engineering marvel achieved by its designers.

Bai Chay Bridge features a distinctive design with cables connecting to a vertical cable plane, resembling a colossal harp when viewed from above, dominating its vast surroundings. The technology required to achieve such elasticity in Vietnam is rare, highlighting advanced construction artistry. The concrete columns are fortified with robust steel, and its pre-stressed system sets world records for smooth load transfer.

Against the clear blue sky, Bai Chay Bridge resembles a stunning piece of art (Source: Collected) 

Vietnam pioneered using two straight bridge towers on partially submerged caisson foundations, each towering 90 meters high, ensuring the bridge's resilience in challenging weather conditions. Such modern technology is typically found in developed nations.

The bridge deck, which rises 50 meters above sea level during construction, ensures stability with a balanced weight distribution on both sides. Its seaward-facing deck ends with supportive flares, facilitating smooth vessel passage even during construction or repairs.

Bai Chay, Vietnam, is famous for its world-record bridge (Source: Collected)

Bai Chay Bridge is ideal for admiring Ha Long City's panoramic beauty at night. The glittering lights and tranquil boats moored along the river create a serene and enchanting scene. Visiting Bai Chay Bridge in Ha Long offers the chance to marvel at Vietnam's largest cable-stayed bridge, an architectural icon of this beautiful coastal city.

3. Best places to visit near Bai Chay Bridge

3.1. Hon Gai

Located 165 kilometers from Hanoi and 5 kilometers from Bai Chay, Hon Gai is ideal for weekend getaways. Highlights here include Hon Gai Beach, a large and well-developed artificial beach, and the unique Quang Ninh Museum, characterized by its box-shaped design and striking dark glass exterior. 

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Ha Long is Hon Gai (Source: Collected) 

3.2. Bai Chay 

Bai Chay, Quang Ninh, offers a vibrant summer experience with its stunning 1000-meter-long artificial beach, the widest in Halong Bay, known for its clear blue waters and cleanliness. At night, Bai Chay Night Market bustles with activities, perfect for leisurely beach activities followed by shopping for local crafts and seafood specialties. 

Bai Chay Night Market bustles at night (Source: Collected) 

Bai Chay Bridge is a testament to the excellence of engineering and the marvel of architecture in Quang Ninh Province. As a significant tourist attraction, the bridge enhances connectivity and offers breathtaking views, especially at night when it illuminates the skyline with enchanting lights. 

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