Bangkok's Orange Line Construction Triggers Major Flyover Demolitions: Traffic Plans Reveal

[snoop1130]

 

The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) is set to begin dismantling three key flyovers in Bangkok to make way for the new Orange Line electric railway, while implementing measures to lessen traffic disruptions.

 

Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote has directed the MRTA to ensure the project stays on track, according to Vithaya Punmongkol, the agency's acting governor. The MRTA prioritizes safety and plans to provide regular updates to the public.

 

Initial traffic diversions started on November 15 at five Orange Line stations: Bang Khun Non, Siriraj, Democracy Monument, Yommarat, and Pratunam. More detours will begin by the month’s end.

 

 

Key demolition dates include:

 

• Charan Sanitwong Road’s flyover will close on January 6, redirecting traffic to single-lane routes on nearby roads like Liap Thang Rotfai Taling Chan Road. Reconstruction is slated for December 2026 through June 2028.
• Ratchathewi intersection flyover demolition starts January 15. During this time, two lanes on each side of Phetchaburi Road remain open. Reconstruction will occur from December 2026 to April 2028.
• Pratunam intersection flyover will see partial demolition from March 2026, reopening by November 2026, with four lanes on Phetchaburi Road available to drivers.

 

MRTA has tasked contractors, Ch. Karnchang Plc, and Bangkok Expressway and Metro PLC (BEM) to assist with traffic management. The project will also include rerouting utilities and underground tunnel construction.

 

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is coordinating with district offices to mitigate traffic congestion in these busy areas, ensuring that roadways remain open during the day while construction happens mostly at night.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-11-27