Ever wonder about a bridge that can disappear? Right here before you stands the Krung Thep Bridge. It’s not magic, but engineering marvel. This bridge, also known as Saphan Krung Thep, isn’t just a way across the Chao Phraya River. It’s a piece of Bangkok’s history. Krung Thep Bridge was the third bridge to grace this river. It officially opened on June 25, 1959. The bridge is a bascule bridge. This means it has a movable section that can be raised. Think of it as a modern-day drawbridge. This allows tall ships to pass through. The Krung Thep Bridge spans 350.8 meters and carries four lanes of roadway, as well as pedestrian walkways. Its longest span reaches 64 meters. The clearance above the water, when the bridge is closed, is 7.5 meters. The construction, undertaken by Fuji Car Manufacturing Co., Ltd., cost 31,912,500 baht. Originally built to alleviate traffic, the Krung Thep Bridge eventually became congested itself. This led to the construction of the six-lane Rama III Bridge nearby. While it doesn’t happen often, witnessing the Krung Thep Bridge raise its arms to allow ships passage is a unique sight. It’s a testament to the bridge’s enduring functionality and its place in Bangkok’s dynamic landscape. The raising takes about 20 minutes using the main electrical mechanism. A backup engine-powered system takes around 30 minutes. In a real pinch, manual operation using a worm drive takes about an hour. It’s a reminder that this vital artery of Bangkok is more than just steel and concrete. It is a living, breathing piece of the city’s past and present.
Wat Kan Matuyaram
Did Mr. Kan’s mother ever imagine that a simple flower garden would one day become Wat Kan Matuyaram, a tranquil