The bustling metropolis of Shenzhen City and Zhongshan City in China’s Pearl River Delta region celebrated a historic moment on June 30, 2024, as the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link officially opened to trial operations. This monumental infrastructure project, spanning 24 kilometers and featuring bridges, man-made islands, tunnels, and underwater passages with a two-way eight-lane design, marks a significant achievement in connecting two key cities in the region.
Seven years after the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge opened to traffic, the completion of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link signifies another remarkable feat in China’s ongoing efforts to enhance its transportation network and stimulate economic growth. Despite facing numerous challenges due to its complex geographical location and technical requirements, the Link has emerged as a testament to Chinese innovation and engineering prowess.
At the forefront of this ambitious project stands SANY, a leading construction equipment manufacturer, whose contributions have been instrumental in overcoming the challenges of the sea-crossing endeavor. Back in July 2019, SANY crawler cranes were instrumental in lowering the first steel suspension box of the Lingdingyang Bridge, a vital component of the Link. Weighing nearly 1,800 tons and serving as a critical anti-collision measure for the bridge, the suspension box required precise handling and placement, which SANY cranes executed flawlessly after 10 hours of continuous work.
In March 2020, as the project entered its most challenging phase of pouring over 5,098 cubic meters of concrete in a single operation, SANY’s expertise came to the forefront once again. With high temperatures and strong sea winds posing significant obstacles, SANY dispatched service engineers to ensure a smooth and efficient pouring process. Through meticulous planning and coordination with technical personnel, multiple 48-meter SANY pump trucks completed the casting work in record time, showcasing SANY’s commitment to excellence in even the most demanding construction environments.
The opening of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link has significantly reduced travel time between the two cities, from 2 hours to just 30 minutes, transforming the region into a cohesive living area where daily commutes and activities can be efficiently managed within a 30-minute radius. This enhanced connectivity not only improves the quality of life for local residents but also contributes to the economic vibrancy of the Pearl River Delta.
As SANY continues to push the boundaries of engineering excellence, the company remains committed to its mission of “Quality Changes the World” and driving innovation in infrastructure development. From pioneering the first desert railway to constructing the world’s largest-span suspension bridges, SANY’s legacy of creating engineering marvels underscores its dedication to building a better world for generations to come.
In conclusion, the inauguration of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link represents a significant milestone in China’s infrastructure development, showcasing the nation’s commitment to creating a more connected and efficient transportation network. With SANY’s unwavering support and cutting-edge technology, projects of this scale and complexity are made possible, driving progress and prosperity across the region.