India is currently constructing the Chenab Bridge, which is expected to be the world's tallest arch bridge by the time it is complete. Chenab bridge is going to be a landmark in India, spanning over the Chaneb River which is located between Bakkal and Kauri in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir.
Upon completion, the bridge will be 359 meters tall, which is almost 60 meters taller than the Eiffel tower. It will also be 1,315 meters long with a 480-meter trussed arch span. What is certain about the construction of this bridge is that it will be no easy task. There are many problems that have to be taken care of.
Consider the wind speed for example. Engineers have discovered that wind speeds at a height of 359 meters can reach a staggering 266 km/h. Because of this challenge, it was decided that no train shall be allowed to cross the bridge if the wind speed exceeds 90km/h.
Even the smallest of details need special consideration for this bridge construction. For example, the paint of the bridge also has to be special because it is not easy to access the bridge given the terrain surrounding it. A special type of paint that can last up to 35 years will be used to paint the bridge.
The Chaneb bridge will consume an incredible 25,000 tonnes of steel. As one can imagine, a very strong foundation needs to be in place in order to support such a massive structure. That is why the construction team have taken careful steps to ensure that the right foundation is in place.