Pridi-Thamrong Bridge and Economic and Social Changes in Ayutthaya City Island Since 1943 to Present

Abstract

This article aims to: (1) examine the general conditions of Ayutthaya City Island prior to the construction of Pridi–Thamrong Bridge; (2) investigate the origins of the bridge project; (3) study the construction process of the bridge; and (4) analyze the economic and social changes that occurred on Ayutthaya City Island following the construction of Pridi–Thamrong Bridge up to the present day. The findings reveal that before the construction of the Pridi Thamrong Bridge, transportation to Ayutthaya City Island was difficult because the island was surrounded by rivers, and travel relied primarily on boats. The development of Ayutthaya City Island and the construction of the Wang Noi, Ayutthaya Road led to the establishment of the bridge project. Construction began in August 1940, was completed within three years, and the bridge was officially opened on 14 July 1943, coinciding with the birthday of Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram, the Prime Minister at the time. He named the bridge “Pridi–Thamrong Bridge” in honor of the people of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, whose representatives in the government included two prominent figures: Pridi Banomyong and Rear Admiral Thawan Thamrongnawasawat. Following its construction, the bridge significantly improved transportation and accessibility to Ayutthaya City Island. It also contributed to the expansion of new commercial areas, particularly Hua Ro Market and Ho Rattanachai Market, while strengthening transportation links between Ayutthaya and neighboring provinces.