Pipat Aekpapun is the governor of this northern Thai town. Earlier this week, he presided over ceremonies attended by 200 local dignitaries, Buddhist monks and residents to make merit and ensure good fortune for Su Tong Pae.
The governor told reporters that although the 500-metre-long bridge and walkway were made from bamboo, they had now been strengthened so that they could carry a combined weight of 20 tonnes. A 50-metre sector of the Mae Sa Nga River bridge gave way last Wednesday when 500 people crowded on it to mark the end of the three-month Buddhist Lent.
Governor Aekpapun extended an open invitation to tourists to visit the renovated bridge. Mae Hong Son is one of Thailand’s hidden gems. Attractions include beautiful landscapes and temples, hilltribes, peerless souvenirs and a pastoral ambience. 12GO ASIA offers combined train-bus tickets for travel from Bangkok to Mae Hong Son via Chiang Mai.
Landmark Mae Hong Son bridge restored after collapse
News in Asia
A landmark bridge close to the town of Mae Hong Son has reopened following a concerted rebuilding programme. Villagers and Thai government officials joined hands in the effort to restore the bridge, Su Tong Pae, after it collapsed last week.