Major celebration as HM launches bridges

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Major celebration as HM launches bridges 
The Nation: 25 Nov 2010
Major celebration as HM launches bridges
By The Nation
Published on November 25, 2010

His Majesty the King's first public appearance in nearly a year seemed to have brought joy to the entire nation yesterday. Cries of "Long Live the King" resounded along the waterways from Siriraj Hospital in Bangkok to the mouth of the Pho canal in Samut Prakan as the Angsana sailed past with His Majesty and HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on board.

The much-beloved monarch left the hospital, where he has been receiving treatment for more than a year, at 4.30pm to preside over the inauguration of two bridges and water gates of a canal in Tambon Song Khanong, Phra Pradaeng district, Samut Prakan province.

His first boat trip in years was witnessed by millions of Thais glued to their television sets or thousands standing by to catch a glimpse of the monarch as his boat made its way down the 16-kilometre route.

Many people, dressed in pink and carrying flags, were seen waiting at the inauguration venue since noon.

His Majesty has been on the throne for more than six decades now, working tirelessly for his people.

The 600-metre-long Pho canal was improved and installed with water gates under his initiative, and has effectively eased flooding in Bangkok and its adjacent provinces.

"Before this, our neighbourhood would get flooded every year," Suthin Chaibat, who was waiting with his wife at the inauguration venue, said.

Wimonrat Saeng-urai, another devoted subject, said she used to have to wade through waist-deep floods, but that his stopped thanks to the water gates. "His Majesty's initiative is a blessing," she said.

The two bridges called Bhumibhol I and II, which were inaugurated yesterday, were also built in response to His Majesty's suggestions.

Going across the Chao Phraya, these giant bridges have significantly eased traffic problems because now people can get to places without having to go though central Bangkok.

"My life is so much easier now," a 70-year-old man among the waiting crowd said. "His Majesty is farsighted and truly concerned about his people's well-being".

The inauguration ceremony started at around 6pm yesterday, with His Majesty presiding from the boat.

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva first presented his report on the projects, before video presentations were displayed. Then His Majesty placed his hand on a sensor starting an impressive light-and-sound show about the Pho canal, its water gates and the bridges. The show was brought to a spectacular end with fireworks.

His Majesty was often seen taking pictures from time to time. Once the ceremony was completed, His Majesty was seen off with loud chants of "Long Live the King" from his people. The King arrived at Siriraj Hospital at around 7.35pm.

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2010/11/25/national/Major-celebration-as-HM-launches-bridges-30143104.html