Thotsamarachan Bridge or Rama 10 Bridge due to open this December 2024!

(Photo Credit: Home.co.th)

Bangkok is set to welcome a new architectural marvel, the Rama X Bridge or Saphan Thotsamarachan, designed to ease traffic congestion and honor His Majesty the King.

The Expressway Authority of Thailand (Exat) governor, Surachet Laophulsuk, has announced that His Majesty the King will preside over the opening ceremony on December 14, 2024. The bridge, spanning over the Chao Phraya River, will mark a significant upgrade to the city's transport infrastructure.

Key Features of the Bridge

• Eight-Lane Cable-Stayed Design: The bridge runs parallel to the aging Rama IX Bridge, offering a modern alternative with eight traffic lanes.
• 780-Metre Length: The bridge stretches across the Chao Phraya River from Rat Burana district on the Thonburi side to Yannawa district on the Bangkok side.
• Record-Breaking Width: At 450 meters, it will be the widest river bridge in Thailand.
• Earthquake- and Tornado-Resistant Structure: The bridge can withstand wind speeds of up to 270 km/h, ensuring safety even during severe weather conditions

In addition to its impressive structural features, the bridge incorporates symbolic elements to celebrate the monarchy with;

• Golden Yellow Naga Sculptures: Four pillars are adorned with sculptures of a golden yellow Naga, representing the year of His Majesty's birth.
• Yellow Starflower Motif: The bridge fences feature a decorative pattern inspired by the Yellow Starflower, the symbolic tree of King Rama X.

Alleviating Traffic Congestion

The new bridge is part of the larger Rama III-Dao Khanong-Western Ring Road expressway project connecting to the Chaloem Maha Nakhon and Si Rat expressway systems. Once fully operational, it is expected to relieve traffic on the neighboring Rama IX Bridge, which currently handles 150,000 vehicles daily. The project, costing around 6.6 billion baht, will significantly improve traffic flow between Bangkok and its western and southern suburbs.

Scheduled Opening and Future Plans

The Expressway Authority of Thailand (Exat) plans to fully open by the end of the year. Following this, the Rama IX Bridge will undergo a year-long maintenance upgrade, including the installation of a modern sensor system for enhanced safety.

Stay tuned for updates on the grand opening of this iconic infrastructure that promises to transform Bangkok's transportation landscape!

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