Quang Ngai Accelerates Construction of Son My Bridge and Two-Lane Expressway to Meet Year-End Deadline, Reaching 70% Completion

QUANG NGAI, VIETNAM – The Quang Ngai Provincial Department of Transport is spearheading an accelerated construction schedule for the Son My Bridge and its associated two-lane expressway, a critical infrastructure project in the region. Following a period of stagnation due to land acquisition challenges, significant progress has been made since June 1st, with the project now estimated to be 70% complete. This ambitious push aims to overcome previous delays and bring the vital transportation link closer to its operational goals.

Overcoming Hurdles: From Stalled to Accelerated Progress

The Son My Bridge and the connecting two-lane expressway, a project totaling an investment of approximately 79 billion VND, have experienced a complex development journey. The main bridge structure has largely been completed, but the subsequent access roads have presented a significant bottleneck. Previously, news reports highlighted the paradoxical situation where the bridge itself was nearing completion, while the crucial access routes remained undeveloped, leading to the moniker "bridge to nowhere."

This situation has been a source of concern for local authorities and residents alike, as the potential economic and social benefits of the bridge could not be fully realized without seamless connectivity. The current intensified efforts are a direct response to these concerns, signaling a renewed commitment to completing the project within the stipulated timeframe.

A Focused Drive Towards Completion

As of July 21st, officials from the Quang Ngai Provincial Project Management Board for Transport Projects confirmed that since June 1st, multiple key aspects of the construction have seen significant advancements. The focus has shifted to expediting the remaining work across various fronts.

The primary bridge structure is now complete. Current construction efforts are concentrated on finalizing the remaining segments of the access roads. This includes the implementation of 3H culverts (measuring 4.5 x 4 meters), the installation of M1 guardrails, and the construction of retaining walls along the route. Additionally, work is underway to lay pipes and establish drainage systems on both sides of the expressway, ensuring proper water management and structural integrity.

Previously, on April 4th, Thanh Nien newspaper had reported on the incomplete status of the access roads, particularly on the western side of Son Tay, which lacked paving and contributed to the project’s stalled appearance. The current acceleration aims to rectify this and ensure all components are integrated effectively.

Detailed Project Breakdown and Timeline

The project’s revised schedule outlines a strategic approach to tackle the remaining construction phases.

Approaching Mid-August: Key Milestones Targeted

By August 31st, several critical components are slated for completion. This includes the installation of 3H culverts, M1 guardrails, and retaining walls along the expressway. The relocation of low-voltage power lines (0.4 kV) is also a priority, with efforts to move them to a safe distance.

September: Land Clearance and Substructure Work

The month of September is crucial for land clearance. The plan is for all necessary land acquisition and handover processes to be completed by the end of September 2026. This will enable the full handover of the ground to construction units, allowing for the unhindered progress of the remaining works.

By the end of September, the project aims to achieve significant progress on substructure elements. This includes completing 50% of the embankment work for the right-side road and 50% of the construction for the right-side retaining walls, extending over 65 meters. The overarching goal is to finalize the entire B400 embankment on the right side of the route.

October and November: Final Push for Connectivity

Following the full handover of cleared land in September, the construction teams will concentrate on completing the remaining sections of the project during October and November. This encompasses all remaining retaining wall segments, embankment work, road surfacing, and the relocation of any ancillary structures. The objective is to ensure all these elements are finalized in preparation for the project’s final inspection and acceptance.

Year-End Operationalization: A Projected December 25th Opening

The project is scheduled to undergo final inspection and acceptance, with a projected operational launch on December 25th. This date signifies the culmination of years of planning, development, and construction, aiming to integrate this vital link into Quang Ngai’s transportation network.

Background and Context: The Importance of the Son My Bridge Project

The Son My Bridge and its associated two-lane expressway are more than just a construction project; they represent a strategic investment in Quang Ngai province’s socio-economic development. The total length of the project exceeds 437 meters, with the bridge section alone spanning 179 meters. The estimated investment of approximately 79 billion VND underscores the significance placed on this infrastructure.

Upon completion, the project is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing regional connectivity. It will facilitate smoother transportation for residents in highland areas, improve the movement of goods and services, and foster economic development in the western region of Quang Ngai province. This development is particularly crucial for areas that have historically faced challenges in terms of accessibility and economic opportunities.

The project aligns with broader national goals of developing robust transportation networks to support economic growth and improve the quality of life for citizens. By connecting previously underserved areas, the Son My Bridge project aims to unlock new potential for trade, tourism, and local industries.

Land Acquisition: The Persistent Challenge

A recurring theme in the development of large-scale infrastructure projects in Vietnam, as in many countries, is the challenge of land acquisition and compensation. The Son My Bridge project has been no exception. The delays stemming from these issues highlight the complexities involved in balancing development needs with the rights and livelihoods of affected residents.

The Quang Ngai Provincial People’s Committee issued Decision No. 213/QD-UBND on January 19, 2026, approving the adjustment of the project’s investment. Following this, the Project Management Board for Transport Projects collaborated with the Provincial Land Development Center and local authorities to conduct thorough site surveys, verifications, and ascertain the land’s origin. This process is essential for developing fair and accurate compensation plans.

On June 17th, the Provincial Land Development Center issued an official dispatch to the Son Tay commune People’s Committee, requesting confirmation of the land’s origin and details regarding compensation policies. This includes information on resettlement, livelihood support, and vocational training for those affected by the project. Such measures are critical to ensuring that land acquisition processes are handled equitably and transparently.

Contractor’s Perspective: The Reality on the Ground

The delays attributed to land acquisition have had a tangible impact on the contractors. Mr. Phan Thanh Lanh, a technical official from Thanh Dat Construction Co., Ltd., one of the project’s contractors, highlighted the difficulties faced. The lack of "clean" land, meaning land free from encumbrances and ready for construction, has forced machinery and equipment to remain idle for extended periods.

This inactivity leads to increased operational costs, including the expenses associated with transporting equipment back and forth. Mr. Lanh noted that if equipment needs to be moved frequently, the company incurs significant costs due to the long distances involved in transporting materials and the complexity of the logistics. This financial strain can impact project timelines and budgets.

Broader Implications and Future Outlook

The successful completion of the Son My Bridge and expressway is expected to have a ripple effect across Quang Ngai province. Beyond the immediate benefits of improved transportation, the project is poised to stimulate economic activity by:

• Enhancing Trade and Commerce: Easier access to markets will benefit local farmers and businesses, allowing for more efficient distribution of goods and potentially opening up new market opportunities.
• Boosting Tourism: Improved infrastructure can attract more tourists to the region, leading to increased revenue for local businesses and job creation in the hospitality sector.
• Facilitating Urban and Rural Development: The enhanced connectivity can encourage investment in areas previously considered remote, leading to better access to services and a higher quality of life for residents.
• Strengthening Regional Integration: By better connecting different parts of the province, the project contributes to a more integrated and cohesive regional economy.

The commitment to accelerating the construction and the focus on resolving land acquisition issues demonstrate a clear understanding of the project’s strategic importance. While challenges have persisted, the current momentum suggests a strong resolve to overcome them and deliver this vital infrastructure by the projected year-end deadline. The success of this project will serve as a testament to Quang Ngai’s efforts in driving forward its development agenda through significant infrastructure investments.