Bangkok bridges to be inspected after Lat Phrao damage found

Chadchart urges public to be aware of possible risks from falling debris plus accidents

An aerial view of the Lat Phrao intersection in Bangkok. (Photo: Arnun Chonmahatrakool)
An airborne view of the Bekv?m Phrao intersection within Bangkok. (Photo: Arnun Chonmahatrakool)

Bangkok governor Chadchart Sittipunt has required a comprehensive inspection associated with traffic bridges throughout the city after being alerted to regarding damage to the bridge over the busy Ratchada-Lat Phrao intersection.

The governor thanked former Liberal Party MP Watchara Petchthong for reporting the damage to the link to his office.

Parts of the bridge were damaged or lacking as a result of high-speed crashes involving trucks and other vehicles, Mr Chadchart said during an inspection with mouthpiece governor Wisanu Subsompon on Saturday.

“We have to carry out a system-wide inspection because there is a possibility of debris falling off and accidents, ” the governor said. “We need to check every bridge, especially U-turn links that are at risk of crash by vehicles, and people should be wary as this is not uncommon. ”

The security of road infrastructure has attracted increased attention since last month, when a couple died after a cement beam from a U-turn bridge fell on to three passing vehicles on Rama II Road in Samut Sakhon, just west of the capital. If so, the structure had been believed to have been destabilized because insufficient reinforcing fishing rods had been used in an earlier repair.

Mr Chadchart also commented on frequent motorcycle accidents on Bus Speedy Transit (BRT) lane, which have resulted in each injuries and fatalities. He said that contracts for the public transportation line are being reconsidered ahead of their feasible renewal in 2024 so that safety can be enhanced.

Mr Wisanu urged the public to survey any causes meant for concern to the  Traffy Fondue Smart City platform. This is a channel that uses artificial intelligence (AI) technology to manage complaints sent to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.