The Construction of the Shenzhong Link Bridge and Tunnel Project in Guangdong, China

After years of anticipation, I finally got the chance to explore and film a project right in my backyard—the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Bridge. This has been a long time coming, and as someone with a civil engineering background and a family of engineers, I can honestly say that producing this video has been the most exhilarating experience on my channel to date. I hope you enjoy this inside look at a monumental construction feat.

This exclusive tour of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Bridge in Guangdong, is a true marvel of modern engineering. This massive project, once completed, will revolutionize connectivity across the Pearl River Delta, setting a new standard for infrastructure and urban development. My video provides a unique, up-close view of the construction of one of the world’s largest undersea tunnels and cross-sea bridges, capturing the scale and ambition of this incredible undertaking. The Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link is a symbol of progress that will cut travel time between Zhongshan and Shenzhen from over two hours to just 20 minutes, reshaping the region’s economic landscape.

Stepping onto the site, amidst the roar of machinery and the coordinated efforts of hundreds of firms, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale of this project. My first stop was The Wisdom Girder Field, where massive bridge segments are meticulously assembled. Each colossal girder imbodies the engineering precision and teamwork driving this project. With 791 concrete segments crafted to exact specifications, the logistics of moving these behemoths into place across the water is a mesmerizing ballet of efficiency and skill.

Next, I took to the waters of the Lingdingyang Sea, where I was greeted by the towering East Tower—a beacon rising above the horizon. This tour continued with a visit to the innovative West Island, the entrance to the undersea tunnel that is poised to transform economic dynamics in the region. Every tunnel segment, carefully positioned on the seabed, represents a groundbreaking achievement in civil engineering. Witnessing this effort firsthand, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by the sheer determination and resilience that fuels this project.

The bridge itself is a marvel in its own right, boasting the title of the world’s largest steel girder suspension sea bridge. During my second visit, I climbed to the highest point of the Ling Ding Yang Bridge, walking along the catwalks stretched between the cables. This experience, made possible by the hardworking team, was a privilege I’ll never forget—I was the only foreigner given access to this vantage point. I also had the opportunity to tour the Industrial Training Center, where workers undergo rigorous training in psychological decompression, medical procedures, and safety drills. The center’s simulators, including one that simulates a sudden fall, were particularly impressive and underscored the project’s commitment to worker safety.

Since my first visit, the bridge’s progress has been astounding. Roadway sections now extend kilometers across the water, each one meticulously documented with QR codes that provide instant access to detailed information about each segment—a brilliant demonstration of transparency and innovation. Standing atop the 270-meter-high pylons, overlooking the massive anchors that stabilize this structure, I felt a profound respect for the human ingenuity and dedication behind this project. The focus on worker well-being, from air-conditioned rest areas to comprehensive on-site facilities, including a fitness center and medical clinic, is equally commendable. A dedicated team of healthcare professionals ensures the safety and health of everyone involved, showcasing a truly holistic approach to project management.

As I wraped up my tours of the Shenzhong Link, I’m grateful for the rare privilege of witnessing this engineering marvel up close. Being the only foreigner allowed to reach these heights during construction has given me a deep appreciation for the complexity and scale of this project, and I’m excited to see it come to life. With completion set for 2024, I can’t wait to be one of the first to drive the 24 kilometers from the junction to Shenzhen airport—a journey that will not only be a testament to engineering excellence but also a personal milestone.