Hanoi breaks ground on key Co Linh underpass project

The new project is expected to ease traffic congestion at the city's eastern gateway.

Speaking at the event, Ngo Ngoc Van, director of the Hanoi Transport Construction Investment Project Management Board, noted that following the operation of the elevated Ring Road 2 section, from Nga Tu So to Vinh Tuy, and the second phase of Vinh Tuy Bridge, traffic volume at the Co Linh intersection has surged dramatically.

The area frequently experiences severe congestion, especially during peak hours.

Van emphasized the urgency of the project, which combines the construction of an underpass with roadway expansion and a redesigned traffic flow system at the Co Linh intersection.

The project is meant to alleviate bottlenecks, improve connectivity, and complete the local transport infrastructure.

Hanoi vice-chairman Duong Duc Tuan stated that the city would launch eight major infrastructure projects during this commemorative period, with the Co Linh underpass being a highlight.

He identified the underpass as a crucial component in addressing congestion at the eastern gateway of the city and a key piece in the broader development of Ring Road 2 as outlined in Hanoi's urban planning strategy.

He called on the investor and contractors to mobilize maximum resources, manpower, and equipment to ensure rapid, scientific, and safe construction.

He stressed strict compliance with legal regulations, as well as adherence to quality, technical, and aesthetic standards throughout the construction timeline.

Also, he underscored the importance of maintaining order and traffic safety, ensuring labor safety, protecting the environment, and implementing appropriate construction methods to minimize disruption and prevent additional congestion around the work site.

The underpass will be built at the Co Linh intersection, which connects the approach to Vinh Tuy Bridge and Dam Quang Trung Street in Long Bien Ward.

The underpass will span a total length of 600 meters, comprising 100 meters of covered tunnel, 260 meters of open trench, and 240 meters of retaining walls and wheel guards.

Designed with six lanes, the underpass will have a total width of 27.1 meters.

The project, with a total investment of nearly VND748 billion (US$28.4 million), will also incorporate supporting infrastructure such as technical systems, greenery and traffic signals.