World’s Longest Annual Bamboo Bridge in Cambodia: A Remarkable Cyclical Structure

In Cambodia, a remarkable engineering feat unfolds every year: the construction and deconstruction of the world’s longest bamboo bridge. Spanning an impressive 3,000 feet, this unique structure connects Kampong Cham, the country’s sixth-largest town, to Koh Paen island across the Mekong River, serving over 1,000 families. The bridge is meticulously assembled during the dry season when the river’s waters recede, rendering traditional ferry services impractical.

However, its temporary nature is the key to its longevity. As the rainy season approaches, and the Mekong’s waters swell with unpredictable currents, the bridge is meticulously dismantled by hand. The bamboo, comprising an astonishing 50,000 sticks, is then either stored for future use or repurposed for other projects. During the monsoon, the river becomes impassable for the bridge due to its formidable currents.

The construction process is a testament to local craftsmanship. Bamboo poles are securely anchored in the riverbed, supporting a surface crafted from split bamboo matting. Additional poles are added at various angles to provide structural stability, making the bridge sturdy enough to accommodate light vehicles. Despite its strength, the bamboo’s flexibility ensures a slightly bouncy ride for travelers, accompanied by the gentle rattling of the deck under their wheels.

This awe-inspiring spectacle attracts thousands of tourists to Kampong Cham each year. While locals are charged a nominal fee of 100 riels (approximately Rs 2.02), foreign tourists pay a significantly higher cost. The tolls collected contribute substantially to the local economy, with daily revenues ranging from 1 to 2 million riels (Rs 20,167.27 to Rs 40,334).

While this annual marvel captivates visitors, it exists in proximity to a more conventional concrete bridge, which can accommodate vehicles weighing up to 30 tons and boasts a projected lifespan of at least 50 years, far surpassing the temporary bamboo bridge’s capacity of only 4 tons.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The News 18 English