400 billion VND allocated, yet Bao Loc southern bypass road remains stalled

Construction on the southern bypass road in Bao Loc, Lam Dong province, Vietnam, has stalled for years, leaving a 15.5 km stretch of incomplete infrastructure despite a recent injection of 400 billion VND (approximately $16 million USD).

The project, which began in 2017 with an initial budget of over 800 billion VND and was slated for completion in 2019, has been languishing since October 2020. Approximately 70% of the work was finished before construction halted, leaving many sections severely degraded. Overgrown vegetation now covers parts of the road surface, and significant damage, including major cracks and subsidence, is evident, particularly in areas affected by heavy rains in 2023.

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This road is vital and helps people shorten their travel time... But why is it left in this state?

Residents express frustration and impatience with the prolonged delay. "This road is vital and helps people shorten their travel time... But why is it left in this state?" asked Phan Van Sang, a local resident. He noted that the bypass was intended to divert heavy traffic, such as trucks and buses, away from Bao Loc's city center, improving daily commutes for those traveling between Dai Lào and Lộc Sơn.

The lack of progress has not only inconvenienced locals but also created safety hazards. A section near Chi Lăng street has suffered severe ground collapse and fracturing, rendering it impassable. Despite temporary barriers, the damaged area is choked with weeds. The situation has led to illegal dumping in some unfinished sections, further exacerbating the environmental impact. Locals like Nguyen Van Duc, who uses a three-wheeled vehicle for his plant delivery business, are forced to take detours due to the impassable sections, adding to their daily struggles.

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The road has not been built for many years, causing great difficulties for the people. I don't understand why it's been left like this for so long. Before, I saw several delegations come to inspect this road, but until now... nothing.