The government is floating an idea to make the 88-year-old Memorial Bridge, or Saphan Phut, into a new landmark for Bangkok to attract tourists from around the world.
The idea was unveiled on Tuesday by Pathom Chaloeywares, director-general of the Department of Rural Roads.
Mr Pathom said Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha asked him to see the bridge become a new attraction.
The premier also ordered the department to find out how to restart the drawbridge practice. In the old days, Saphan Phut was able to lift in parts to let large ships pass. This stopped several years ago.
Mr Pathom said the drawbridge feature and redevelopment of surrounding land could make the area become popular with tourists.
The consultant project will take one year to complete, and the restoration is expected to be finished by the end of 2023.
Built in 1929 during the reign of King Rama VII, to mark Bangkok's 150th anniversary, the bridge was the second bridge connecting Bangkok and Thon Buri province.
