The Thai government is expediting the construction of the Pak Nai Bridge over the Sirikit Dam, a project aimed at connecting Uttaradit and Nan provinces. The bridge, spanning 2.3 kilometers, is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the two provinces, from 30 minutes to less than 5 minutes.
As of May 16, 2024, the Department of Highways (DL) has reported that environmental surveys and data collection in Si Nan National Park and Nam Nan National Park are underway. The project, with a budget exceeding one billion baht, is anticipated to be completed by early 2025. This bridge will provide a much-needed alternative to the current car raft system across the Sirikit Dam, which has become increasingly congested.
The starting point of the bridge is at Kilometer 100+110 of Highway No. 1339 in Nampad, Uttaradit. It will cross the Sirikit Dam Reservoir with a 355-meter bridge structure, extending 177 meters through Nam Nan National Park before continuing with a 1.14-kilometer bridge over the reservoir. The northern bridge structure will align with Highway 1026 near Pak Nai-Na Muen District to minimize the impact on the local Ban Pak Nai fishing community.
The Pak Nai Bridge will be a two-lane reinforced concrete structure with the potential for future expansion to four lanes. The design includes shoulders, central islands, sidewalks on both sides, and aesthetic features that reflect the local identities of Nan and Uttaradit provinces. The project also plans to renovate nearby parking areas, observation decks, guardrails, and lighting poles.
Current travel between Nampad and Na Muen districts involves using a car raft to cross the Sirikit Dam, which is time-consuming and often delayed. From 2019 to 2022, the raft service recorded 8,116 trips, transporting 107,091 passengers and 32,770 vehicles. The new bridge is expected to enhance convenience, safety, and efficiency for road users.
The feasibility study for the bridge began on December 24, 2022, and was initially set for 15 months. The study period was extended to secure necessary environmental survey permissions. The project is now on track for completion by early 2025, with an estimated study budget of 29 million baht.
Officials from the Survey and Design Bureau, Department of Highways, local authorities, and various environmental agencies have been involved in the planning and execution phases of this project. The approval process includes rigorous environmental impact assessments to ensure minimal disruption to the surrounding natural habitats.
