Bangkok: Authorities are advising the public to use alternative routes following a bridge beam collapse near the Dao Khanong Expressway toll booth and the Chalerm Mahanakhon Expressway.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chakkri Bamrungwong, Inspector-General of the Ministry of Transport and Deputy Spokesperson for the Ministry, revealed that Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, has instructed the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) to urgently assist the injured and affected families. EXAT, along with the Department of Highways (DoH) and the Department of Rural Roads (DRR), is also tasked with clearing the area to facilitate public travel.
EXAT has temporarily closed the entrance and exit of the Chalerm Mahanakhon Expressway. For those entering the city, Bang Pakao Intersection and Suk Sawat Road to Suk Sawat Tollway are recommended routes. Outbound travelers should use Rama 9 Bridge, exit at Suk Sawat, and proceed to Rama II Road.
The Department of Highways confirms that outbound expressway and parallel lanes on Rama 2 Road remain operational, as do inbound lanes heading to Bang Pakao Intersection. For those on the Rama 9 Expressway heading to outbound Rama 2 Road, the advised route is via Suk Sawat exit, through Mahaisawan Intersection, Charansanitwong Road, Ratchaphruek Road, and Kanlapaphruek Road to Kanchanaphisek Road.
The public is urged to allow extra travel time and consider alternative routes where possible. Travelers are reminded to drive cautiously and follow all road signs and official advice. For further information, the EXAT Call Center can be reached at 1543, the Highways Department hotline at 1586, or the Department of Rural Roads hotline at 1146.