If you're planning a trip to Nong Khai Province, it's worth making a stop at the 1st Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge. As the first major bridge crossing the Mekong River, it symbolizes the bonds formed through cooperation between Thailand, the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), and Australia to strengthen economic, social, cultural, and tourism ties. The bridge spans from the Mueang Nong Khai district in Thailand, across the Mekong River, to Tha Dua in the Lao PDR, a mere 2 kilometers away from Vientiane, the capital of Laos.
The bridge's inauguration filled the citizens with pride, as His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother, and Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn presided over the opening ceremony, together with Mr. Nouhak Phoumsavanh, the then President of Laos, on April 8, 1994.
The 1st Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge spans 1,170 meters and comprises two lanes for vehicle traffic, two pedestrian walkways, and a single-track railway line measuring 1 meter wide. It was built with a budget of 30 million US dollars, with assistance from the Australian government. Construction took place from October 1991 to April 1994, and the bridge now serves as a significant route facilitating convenient and swift travel between the two countries.
Tourists can admire the bridge's beauty by walking up to the midpoint. However, if they wish to cross the border into the Lao PDR, they can travel independently or contact a licensed tour operator. The border crossing is open daily from 06:00 to 22:00. For those bringing in or taking out a vehicle, they must prepare the appropriate vehicle export documentation and pay the specified fee.
Moreover, the Ministry of Transport and related agencies have plans to upgrade the 1st Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge due to its long years of service. The Thai-Lao Joint Bridge Management Committee has resolved to test its ability to carry a load of 20 tons per axle or U20 before transportation is permitted. At the same time, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is improving its rail transport to increase cross-border transportation capabilities. Currently, locomotives and trailers press down with a weight of 15 tons per axle, following the weight-bearing capability regulations of the Thai-Lao Joint Bridge Management Committee.
Source: Department of Highways
Tel. +66 2354 6668
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