Chadchart (ชัชชาติ) Advances Vision for New Pedestrian Bridge Across the Chao Phraya

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt (ชัชชาติ สิทธิพันธุ์) is moving forward with an ambitious plan to build a new pedestrian and cycling bridge across the Chao Phraya River, linking Song Wat (ทรงวาด) Road in the Old Town area with Klong San (คลองสาน) on the Thon Buri (ธนบุรี) side.

The proposed bridge, currently in the design study phase by Chulalongkorn University, is intended to become a new non-religious landmark for Bangkok. It aims to improve walkability, connect historic and emerging cultural districts, and stimulate tourism and local economic activity on both sides of the river.

The bridge would span more than 300 metres, with a minimum width of six metres, and be designed exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists. It is planned to connect the former Sawasdee (สวัสดี) Pier in Samphanthawong (สัมพันธวงศ์) district with the former Wat Thong Thammachart (วัดทองธรรมชาติ) Pier in Klong San (คลองสาน) district, two sites that have long lost their role as major transport hubs. Strategically located between Phra Pok Klao (พระปกเกล้า) Bridge and King Taksin (ตากสิน) Bridge, the project would create a long-missing human-scale crossing.

The project has three main goals: to establish a new urban landmark, to extend tourism from Song Wat (ทรงวาด) and Yaowarat (เยาวราช) to Thon Buri (ธนบุรี), and to generate new tourism-related economic activity. If completed, it would become Bangkok’s second dedicated pedestrian bridge, following the Chao Phraya (เจ้าพระยา) Sky Park opened in 2020.

Local residents and business owners have expressed cautious optimism. Many believe the bridge could revive quiet riverside areas, attract more visitors during both day and night, and provide new public space for walking and exercise. However, some have raised concerns about cost, long-term management, and the need for continuous promotion.

Under current plans, budget and design approval could allow construction to begin around 2028, with completion expected in 2030, continuing Bangkok’s transformation toward a more people-centred city.