First Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge, International bridge in Vientiane, Laos.
The First Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge crosses the Mekong River between Nong Khai Province in Thailand and Vientiane Prefecture in Laos, stretching across 1170 meters (3839 feet) of water. It carries two vehicle lanes, two pedestrian walkways, and a railway track down the center, all running side by side over the river.
Australia provided funding to build this first crossing over the lower Mekong, which opened on April 4, 1994. The construction linked two countries that had relied on ferries and boats until that point.
The bridge marks the transition between left-side driving in Thailand and right-side driving in Laos, reflecting the distinct traffic patterns of both nations.
The border crossing operates daily from 6:00 to 22:00, and shuttle buses run between the Thai and Lao checkpoints. Vehicles switch from driving on the left in Thailand to driving on the right in Laos at the midpoint of the crossing.
The railway line down the middle was originally planned for freight trains and later expanded to carry passengers. Pedestrians and cyclists must use the shuttle buses, as walking or cycling across freely is not permitted.
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