Township prepares for visitor surge ahead of the world's tallest bridge's opening

When he was 13, Tu Deyi of Huajiang township in Guizhou dreamed that the canyon he once struggled to cross would one day be manageable. Now, the world's tallest bridge has brought his wish to fruition.

Beneath the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge, Tu's hometown is racing to prepare for the surge of visitors when the bridge opens on Sept 28.

The township government said peak daily visitor numbers have already reached more than 1,000.

Tourists flock to the town for prime photo opportunities with the magnificent structure. Officials are widening roads, building viewing platforms, and adding other infrastructure to accommodate larger crowds.

"This bridge's opening is a momentous occasion for locals. It will boost incomes and help develop our specialty agricultural industry," said Xu Daihui, deputy Party secretary of the township.

The opening is expected to bring sustained foot traffic and revenue to communities on both sides of the canyon. The provincial transport department estimates the bridge and its surrounding tourism zone will draw more than 1 million visits a year.