.png)
Charoen Krung Road
Charoen Krung Road is regarded as the first road in Bangkok, constructed for transportation within the city's central area. It was built during the reign of King Mongkut (King Rama IV) between 1861 and 1864. The project was surveyed and designed by Mr. Henry Alabaster, while Chao Phraya Borom Maha Sri Suriwongse (Chuang Bunnag) oversaw the construction from the inner moat area to Thanon Tok. Meanwhile, Chao Phraya Yommarat (Khrut) supervised the construction of the inner segment of Charoen Krung Road, which stretched from Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangkhlaram (Wat Pho) to Damrong Sathit Bridge (Upper Iron Bridge).
Charoen Krung Road spans a total length of 8,575 meters, beginning at Sanam Chai and ending at Thanon Tok. It was commonly referred to as the "New Road" during its early days. In a royal remark concerning the road during the reign of King Rama IV, it was noted:
"Foreigners collectively requested its construction to conveniently use horses and carriages, allowing them to enjoy the cool breeze along a road that stretched out comfortably in a straight line."
The road was constructed by filling the foundation with tightly compacted soil and sand, with the surface paved with bricks. The traffic lanes were divided into two sections. Upon its completion and opening for use in 1864, it was observed that:
"How many people, both Thais and foreigners, used horses or carriages? Only a few. Even then, the road was only partially utilized, leaving one side entirely vacant. Few people used it for walking, horseback riding, or carriage driving. Half of the road was left unused, and even that part fell into disrepair before long. If there were no rain this year, there might be less damage. But in heavy rains, the road would deteriorate even more, and grass would grow, rendering the road overgrown and unused."
This concern led to the road's deterioration, prompting King Rama IV to graciously initiate its repair. He issued a royal proclamation encouraging members of the royal family, court officials, and individuals receiving royal allowances—both from the Grand Palace and the Front Palace—to contribute portions of their annual allowances from the Year of the Snake (1857) for road repairs across Bangkok.
As the city developed, Charoen Krung Road became a crucial route connecting inner Bangkok to the Chao Phraya River. In later years, the road was expanded, with its surface upgraded to concrete and asphalt, transforming it into a significant thoroughfare that continues to serve Bangkok’s transportation needs to this day.
Comments