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Category: Transportation
BUCKLAND & TAYLOR
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The Rama 8 cable-stayed bridge is the most recent crossing over the "River of Kings" in central Bangkok. Named as a tribute from the King of Thailand to his late brother King Rama 8, the bridge is part of a new east-west link through central Bangkok. It relieves the nearby Pinklao Bridge of traffic, reducing congestion in the historic Ratanakosin Island area where the Grand Palace and many Bangkok landmarks are located. The bridge is seen as a gift from the King of Thailand to the Thai people.
Rama 8 Bridge is one of the world's largest asymmetric cable-stayed bridges. The structure, a majestic, golden-hued, main span, cable-stayed from a single tower, surpasses both monumental and practical objectives. It marries technical ingenuity with a profound respect for traditional Thai culture. Architectural details that reflect Thai culture and customs include the lotus bud finial atop the tower, elephant foot shaped enclosures at the base of the legs of the pylon, a Buddha outline between the legs of the tower and the lotus motif of Rama 8 incorporated into handrail and pier details.
The bridge is a 475-m long structure supported by a 160-m tall inverted Y-shaped tower. The main span in 300 metres and uses...