The closure of the lanes - one inbound and one outbound - is expected to cause severe traffic congestion.

Bangkok Governor Apirak Kosayodhin yesterday inspected the area and handed out leaflets asking commuters to avoid the intersection during the construction period.

The leaflets provide nine alternative routes.

When complete the new flyover will relieve traffic congestion at the intersection and the adjacent area, Apirak said. Construction will be completed by December, four months ahead of schedule, he said.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) closed the lanes for construction on July 15 and 16. This resulted in a severe traffic jam the following Monday as there were only two inbound and two outbound lanes open. Further construction had been postponed until now.

FM 91 Traffic Radio yesterday predicted heavy traffic and long delays from Thursday.

Mayuree Sukyingcharoen-wong, an office worker who routinely passes the intersection, said she had already planned an alternative route.

"Traffic in this area is regularly jammed. The closure will worsen it for sure," she said. She suggested the BMA put up more signs to remind drivers to avoid the route.

The bridge's construction has already been delayed due to opposition from the Association of the Blind, whose office is near the intersection. The association opposes the removal of a pedestrian bridge in front of its office to make way for the new flyover.

The BMA has promised to replace the pedestrian bridge as soon as possible.

More information can be obtained at the following numbers: 01 823-5463, 01 821-7530, 02 616-5972, 02 248-4672.