On November 10, Minister of Construction Tran Hong Minh led a delegation to inspect progress on the Dong Dang (Lang Son) – Tra Linh (Cao Bang) Expressway and the Huu Nghi – Chi Lang Expressway.
Both projects, launched in January and April 2024, were originally planned for completion in 2026. Following the Prime Minister’s directive to accelerate progress toward the national goal of 3,000 km of expressways from Cao Bang to Ca Mau, only about one month remains before the target opening.
The Project enterprise reported on the progress.
At Huu Nghi – Chi Lang, contractors are operating 143 work fronts with 2,820 workers and 1,240 pieces of machinery, achieving 51.3% of the contract volume. A rest-stop facility is urgently needed, but current PPP and road laws lack clear procedures for adding this item mid-project.
Huu Nghi – Chi Lang project achived 51.3% of the contract volume.
The Dong Dang – Tra Linh project faces even greater pressure due to complex geology and severe storms and landslides in recent months. Some bridge items at Km28, Km52, Km69, and Km79 are now critical-path components. Contractors have deployed 276 work fronts, 3,332 workers, and 1,500 machines, with 44% of the contract volume completed.
Progress is also hindered by remaining land clearance issues, with seven households yet to relocate and delayed compensation payments causing site access disruptions.
At Dong Dang – Tra Linh project, the contractor are operating 276 work fronts with 3.332 workers and 1.500 pieces of machinery.
Despite these challenges, investors and contractors remain committed to meeting the December 19 target. Huu Nghi – Chi Lang aims to open 54 km of the main route, while Dong Dang – Tra Linh plans to open 70 km, with final bridge works continuing into early 2026.
Minister Tran Hong Minh affirmed that the current workforce is capable of meeting the schedule, calling the projects both an “honor and political task.” He requested round-the-clock construction, strict quality control, and full adherence to labor safety, while urging Lang Son and Cao Bang to resolve land clearance issues by November 17.
Minister Tran Hong Minh affirmed that the current workforce is capable of meeting the schedule.
Investors also proposed commendations for three engineers who died during recent floods - an act the Minister supported.
Deo Ca Group Chairman Ho Minh Hoang emphasized that beyond meeting national directives, the ultimate goal is to open the route early so residents can benefit, ideally by the upcoming Lunar New Year. He requested swift legal procedures for a temporary handover of land to build the required rest-stop.
The Minister agreed, directing Lang Son authorities to coordinate and fast-track all necessary approvals.
Encouraging engineers and workers on-site, Minister Tran Hong Minh stated that the two expressways symbolize not only transport connectivity but also shared trust and determination between the Government, businesses, and the people. With 40 days remaining, he expressed confidence that all teams will overcome difficulties to meet the national schedule.
By: Bac Hiep – Photos: Tuan Linh
