Bangkok’s canals beckon under the gentle winter breeze, making a relaxed walk through the metropolis a simple pleasure. Khlong Ong Ang is a great spot to visit and now there’s even more reason: the waterway’s new overpass has been fully renovated. This structure represents a first for a public fixture of this complexity in the capital, utilising a combination of Thai ingenuity and 3D-printed concrete technology.
The undertaking is a collaboration between the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and Siam Cement Group (SCG), guided by the concept, ‘Thai Innovation Bridge for a Sustainable City’. Construction took just two and a half months – far faster than traditional methods – while keeping environmental impact to a minimum.
Khlong Ong Ang itself is a historic locale, with roots dating back to King Rama I, when it was a bustling trade hub. The recent work has restored its charm, transforming the vicinity into a landmark for pedestrians in the heart of the city.
From Friday to Sunday, 4pm-10pm, the riverside comes alive with street food stalls, cafes, wall art and live music, creating a warm, romantic atmosphere along the waterway.
For regular visitors, the new structure is a tangible sign that technology has entered everyday life. What was once industrial-level advancement is now visible in public spaces. As 3D printing and other technologies are increasingly applied to urban fixtures, municipal transformations could happen faster and more sustainably than ever before. Already, this crossing is set to become a must-visit photo spot in the capital.
To see this cutting-edge design firsthand, head to the section between Damrong Sathit Bridge and Phanuphap Bridge in Phra Nakhon District, near MRT Sam Yot Station (Exit 1).