The fifth Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge, which spans the Mekong River and connects Borikhamxay province in Laos with Bueng Kan province in Thailand, is nearing completion. Once operational, the 1,350-metre-long bridge is expected to significantly enhance trade, investment, tourism, and regional cooperation by improving transport links to Vietnam and southern China.

Located about 10 kilometers north of Pakxan town in Laos, the bridge connects to Kouy Oudom village in Pakxan district and is approximately 2,860 meters from National Highway No. 13 South. On the Lao side, the bridge crosses 535 meters over the Mekong River and is now 98.4 percent complete. Additionally, the 2,775-metre access road, immigration facilities, and supporting infrastructure have been fully constructed.

The final concrete casting ceremony was held on Friday, attended by Laos’ Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Saleumxay Kommasith and Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Suriya Juangroongruangkit.

During the ceremony, Dr. Sonethanou Thammavong, Governor of Borikhamxay, announced that the area at the Lao end of the bridge will be developed into a special economic zone. This zone will include a logistics hub and transportation infrastructure that connects to regional transport networks, positioning the bridge as a vital gateway for cross-border trade in the Greater Mekong Subregion.

Laos’ Minister of Public Works and Transport, Mr. Ngampasong Muongmany, noted that construction began in January 2021 with funding from a 1.38 billion baht loan provided by Thailand’s Neighbouring Countries Economic Development Cooperation Agency (NEDA). The bridge is expected to open to traffic by the end of this year.

Following the ceremony, officials from both countries signed an agreement outlining the bridge’s ownership, usage, management, and maintenance. The signing was carried out by Mr. Ngampasong and Mr. Suriya.

The opening of the bridge will be one of several major events celebrating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Laos and Thailand. It is anticipated to be especially beneficial for trade and transport businesses operating between Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. Borikhamxay province shares a border with Vietnam and lies close to Vinh, a major city along the East-West Economic Corridor linking Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam.

Source: Viantiane Times 
Photo Credit: PRD Thailand