The widest cable-stayed bridge in Thailand has officially opened to traffic this week.

The Rama X Bridge (also known as Saphan Thotsamarachan) over the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok with its distinctive yellow cables lies parallel to the Rama IX bridge. It will carry 150,000 cars in eight lanes of traffic each day.

Runners mark the opening of the Rama X Bridge in Bangkok, Thailand. Credit: Expressway Authority Thailand

The design commemorates Thailand’s reigning monarch, with symbolic sculptures relating to aspects of his life and elements of Thai heritage and progress. The bridge has been built to withstand 270km/h winds.

The Express Authority of Thailand opened the bridge to pedestrian sightseers in a festival between 10 and 19 January. Celebrations included concerts and a running event.