A new cable-stayed bridge spanning the Chao Phraya River, named Thotsamarachan (Rama 10), has temporarily opened to pedestrians, providing an elevated vantage point of Bangkok’s skyline. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views and urban landscape until next Sunday.
The bridge, which is set to officially open for vehicular traffic on January 29, welcomed hundreds of visitors on its pedestrian preview day. Sightseers strolled along the structure, snapping photos and capturing the panoramic views from 41 meters above sea level, a height comparable to the nearby Rama 9 Bridge.
Daily entertainment and food stalls are set up along the walkway, operating from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. during the preview period.
The Thotsamarachan Bridge connects central Bangkok with Suksawat Road and Thon Buri’s western ring road. It spans 780 meters and features eight traffic lanes, making it the widest bridge across the Chao Phraya River. The structure also links with the Srirat and Chalerm Maha Nakhon expressways, enhancing regional connectivity.
Once open to traffic, the bridge is expected to accommodate approximately 150,000 vehicles daily. The Expressway and Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand, the project’s owner, emphasized the use of advanced construction technology, enabling the bridge to withstand wind speeds of over 270 kilometers per hour, equivalent to tornado-strength conditions.
Blending modern engineering with traditional Thai architectural elements, the bridge reflects Thailand’s cultural heritage while addressing the demands of modern infrastructure. The official pedestrian preview has drawn significant interest, adding a touch of festivity to the city.
