Truck Overturns on Vi Ô Lăk Pass, Claiming Two Lives

Quang Ngai, Vietnam – A tragic accident on the perilous Vi Ô Lăk pass in Quang Ngai province has claimed two lives and left one person seriously injured, highlighting the persistent dangers of National Highway 24. The incident, which occurred late on May 2nd, involved a truck that overturned on the treacherous mountain pass, underscoring the urgent need for infrastructure improvements.

The truck, carrying three individuals, reportedly veered off the road near Km58+700 after striking a cliff face while descending the pass. The victims were identified as Lê Đình Thọ, 46, from Da Nang city, and an unidentified individual named Minh. Nguyễn Hồng Nam, 34, from Đắk Lắk province, sustained severe injuries and is receiving emergency medical attention.

This stretch of National Highway 24, particularly the nearly 60km section traversing the Vi Ô Lăk pass between Ba Tơ and Kon Plông districts, has long been recognized as one of the most dangerous routes in the Central Highlands. Characterized by its narrow, approximately 5-meter-wide roadway, sharp bends, steep gradients, and limited visibility, the pass is further exacerbated by frequent dense fog and landslide risks, especially during the afternoon. The scene of the accident, just past a sharp curve, was particularly hazardous due to the narrow road.

The frequency of accidents on this route is alarming. In just the first two months of 2026, this section of the highway has witnessed five serious accidents, resulting in five deaths and seven injuries. This latest tragedy follows a March 7th incident where a truck plunged nearly 200 meters down a ravine, killing one person and injuring two. In response to this dire situation, Quang Ngai province has allocated 2,350 billion VND (approximately $90 million USD) for a project to upgrade and widen the 57km narrow section of National Highway 24 through the Vi Ô Lăk pass, with construction slated for 2026-2028. Despite these efforts, the immediate risks remain high for commuters and residents.