Sixth Thai-Lao bridge on track following talks, design tweaksPhoto: Facebook Mekong River CommissionThe Department of Highways has confirmed that construction of the sixth Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge is set to begin in 2029, following financing talks and design adjustments on the Lao side. A department source said progress on the new bridge, linking Ubon Ratchathani with Salavan in Laos, has advanced after revisions to the project design. The junction with Route 13 will also be redesigned as a roundabout, requiring further impact studies, particularly regarding additional land expropriation. Laos has also requested financial help from Thailand for part of the main Mekong River bridge work, estimated at 185 million baht. The bridge will span 1.6 kilometres with two traffic lanes, linking Thailand's Highway 2112 in Na Tan district with Laos' Route 13 in Lakhonepheng district.

Source: Bangkok Post February 08, 2026 01:51 UTC