Bridge project in southern Vietnam to finish early, cut costs by half

Minister of Construction Tran Hong Minh and a working delegation visited the construction site of the bridge, which links Dong Thap and Vinh Long Provinces, on Saturday, praising the efforts of more than 600 engineers and workers who have been working in shifts to accelerate progress.

The project exemplified successful self-reliance in terms of engineering, construction methods, and equipment, which has led to major savings and efficiency gains, according to the minister.

“The project cost was nearly 50 percent lower than if executed by foreign contractors, as domestic teams had full control over technology, machinery, and made use of locally sourced materials and equipment,” he said.

“Such achievements deserve recognition.

“I propose rewards for the teams and individuals who contributed outstandingly. Contractors who performed well should also be considered for future projects,” he stressed.

The minister emphasized that the project not only benefits the two provinces, but also serves as a strategic artery connecting Ho Chi Minh City, Vinh Long, and Dong Thap with Can Tho City.

Tran Van Thi, head of the My Thuan project management board under the Ministry of Construction, said that the project had been over 96.5 percent complete.

The current workforce is focusing on final stages such as installing medians, road markings, and lighting, and laying asphalt on the remaining short segments.

During the inspection session, vice-chairman of Vinh Long Province Nguyen Truc Son was committed to organizing an inauguration ceremony for the project on August 19, and opening it to traffic on September 2, reported the Vietnam News Agency.

Rach Mieu 2 Bridge, which stretches 17.6 kilometers, was designed as a cable-stayed structure, carrying a price tag of over VND6.8 trillion (US$260.8 million).

Work on the project started in March 2022, and was initially scheduled for completion three years later.