Bailey Bridge in Ban Pang Ka Closed for Repairs Following Flash Flood Damage

The temporary Bailey Bridge near Ban Pang Ka in Chiang Rai Province has been closed for repairs after a flash flood from the Ngao River caused significant damage to its support pillars. The flood, which occurred early morning on September 14, swept away the pillars, leaving the bridge unsafe for travel.

Mr. Supawich Chuprempree, Deputy Director of Chiang Rai Highway District 2, announced the closure following an inspection by local officials. The inspection revealed that the bridge was swaying dangerously, prompting an immediate suspension of all vehicle traffic. The closure affects all types of vehicles, and detours have been set up for local communities.

Coordination with Bridge Construction and Restoration Centre 1, based in Phichit, has been made to carry out emergency repairs. The centre's team were dispatched, and it is expected that the bridge will reopen later on September 15, after the necessary reinforcements are installed.

The damage to the bridge was attributed not only to the flash flood but also to repeated violations of weight restrictions. Despite warnings, heavy trucks weighing more than 8 tons and exceeding 2.5 metres in height frequently used the bridge, accelerating its deterioration. The combined impact of the flash flood and overweight vehicles led to the structural instability that necessitated the closure.

Video of the bridge on September 14 below.

-- 2024-09-15

Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe