Beijing, Jan 10 (IANS) Construction has started on a cable-stayed bridge with the world's longest span (1,176 meters) in China's Jiangsu Province, authorities said.

The bridge is part of the 5.3 km-long cross-river passage that has expressways on the upper level and highways and intercity railways on the lower level over the Yangtze River, Xinhua news agency reported on Thursday.

Advanced materials and new technologies will be used in the construction of the bridge, authorities said.

The passage is of great strategic significance in advancing the integrated development of regional areas and promoting the construction of the Yangtze River economic belt.