Shi Huan, owner of a store near the Ili River Third Bridge, organizes shelves at her store (COURTESY PHOTO)  

Shi Huan, a resident of downtown Yining, Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture, in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, recalls stories from her family about how people once relied on ferries to cross the Ili River, which is revered as the "mother river" of the region. For generations, the river--though a lifeline--was also a barrier, separating communities and limiting opportunities.

Today, that reality is a distant memory. The construction of eight bridges over the Ili River, including the soon-to-open Ili River Third Bridge, has revolutionized connectivity across the region. What was once a slow, uncertain ferry ride is now a seamless journey, weaving together urban and rural landscapes, economies and cultures.

The Ili River Third Bridge in Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, is under construction on September 8 (LU YAN) 

The Ili River Third Bridge, set to be completed and ready for traffic on September 30, is the latest milestone in this transformation. By linking an industrial park in Yining and Qapqal Xibe Autonomous County, it spans 2.86 km and reduces travel time by more than half, unlocking new possibilities for trade, tourism and daily life.

For Shi, who runs a supermarket some 4 km from the bridge, the bridge is more than a convenience--it's a symbol of progress. "It used to take me more than 30 minutes to commute," she said. "When the bridge opens, it will be only 15 minutes."

Construction workers working on the bridge (LU YAN)  

In recent years, Ili has welcomed a growing number of visitors from across the country and other parts of the world such as Kazakhstan, drawn to the region's stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural diversity and deep historical connections to the ancient Silk Road.

Shi noted that the new bridge is expected to bring even more travelers and passersby to the area. "I plan to expand my business by opening a guesthouse," she said, "to serve both domestic and international tourists and share the unique charm of my hometown."

(Reporting from Yining, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region) 

Copyedited by G.P. Wilson 

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