Twelve Chao Phraya bridges to be illuminated in celebration of HM's birthday

Twelve Chao Phraya bridges to be illuminated in celebration of HM's birthday

The Department of Rural Roads (DRR) has announced a light-up event for 12 bridges across the Chao Phraya River, set to take place from 26-29 July, 2025. This event aims to celebrate His Majesty the King's 73rd birthday and boost tourism in Bangkok.

The bridges to be decorated with lights are located in Bangkok and surrounding provinces. The 12 Chao Phraya River bridges planned for illumination are: Rama VIII Bridge, Rama IX Bridge, Phra Pin Klao Bridge, Rama VI Bridge, Krung Thon Bridge, Taksin Bridge (Sathon Bridge), Phra Pok Klao Bridge, Memorial Bridge, Nonthaburi Bridge, Phra Nakhon Bridge (also known as Phra Buddha Yodfa Bridge), Bang Sue Junction Bridge, and Industrial Ring Road Bridge.

This lighting event will allow visitors to enjoy scenic nighttime boat trips along the river while admiring the colorful lighting of the bridges. The lights will be on from 7pm to 10pm on July 26, 27, and 29, and from 7pm until midnight on July 28, the King's actual birthday.

The event forms part of a significant tourism boost strategy during this festive period, highlighting Bangkok’s river scenery and cultural connections. It ties into broader cultural festivities along the Chao Phraya River, which recently included the "Yuyuan Lantern Festival" held at Iconsiam and will continue with other cultural promotions celebrating the King’s birthday.

While this celebration takes place, it's important to note that a security source has urged caution over the progress of the Thai-Cambodian ceasefire. Recent reports indicate a ceasefire violation by Cambodia, but the Royal Thai Army has responded with countermeasures. According to a Cambodian defence spokesperson, there have been no clashes reported after the midnight deadline.

Meanwhile, nearly 200,000 people have been evacuated from seven Thai border provinces and are awaiting official clearance to return. The Royal Thai Army has postponed the RBC meeting due to continued Cambodian shelling along the border.

Despite these circumstances, the DRR encourages everyone to enjoy the light-up event and celebrate the King's birthday in a safe and enjoyable manner.

[1] Department of Rural Roads Announcement [2] News Report on the Light-Up Event [3] News Report on the Thai-Cambodian Border Situation [4] News Report on the Cultural Festivities along the Chao Phraya River

The Department of Rural Roads' light-up event, scheduled from 26-29 July, 2025, is set to showcase an array of entertainment and lifestyle experiences on the Chao Phraya River bridges, as part of its tourism boost strategy. This scenic event, featuring vibrant lighting, will intertwine with cultural festivities along the river, including the "Yuyuan Lantern Festival" held at Iconsiam. Meanwhile, political tensions persist on the Thai-Cambodian border, with evacuations and postponed meetings, but the DRR urges the public to enjoy the light-up event responsibly, embracing tourism, travel, and entertainment while celebrating His Majesty's 73rd birthday in safety.

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