Vietnam's Mekong Delta anticipates coastal expressway connecting Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho

Residents of Vietnam's Mekong Delta are expressing strong optimism and hope for the proposed CT.33 coastal expressway, a project that Vĩnh Long province is actively working to get approved for a potential groundbreaking by the end of the year.

Provincial Party Secretary Trần Văn Lâu stated that Vĩnh Long is collaborating with relevant agencies to complete the necessary documentation for central government submission. Once operational, the CT.33 expressway is envisioned to connect with the existing coastal road network, significantly enhancing the economic development of coastal regions and fostering stronger economic, cultural, and social links between Vĩnh Long and neighboring provinces, including Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho.

The proposed 150-kilometer expressway is designed for four lanes with a speed limit of 100 km/h. It would link Ho Chi Minh City to Đồng Tháp, Vĩnh Long, and Can Tho provinces. The project's estimated cost is over 70,000 billion VND (approximately $2.7 billion USD), with a funding structure of 70% state budget and 30% private investment.

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I was so happy I cried tears when I heard about the investment in this expressway. Thinking about the day I can drive my truck carrying fruits smoothly on the expressway, I can't sleep.

For many locals, the prospect of the expressway brings immense relief and excitement. Nguyễn Thạch, a fruit trader from Can Tho, shared his daily struggles with narrow, congested roads that impede timely deliveries to Ho Chi Minh City. "I was so happy I cried tears when I heard about the expressway," he said, envisioning smoother, faster transport for his produce.

Similarly, Mỹ Hạnh from Bạc Liêu highlighted the difficulties faced by families needing to travel to Ho Chi Minh City for medical treatment. The current routes are circuitous, adding significant time and stress, especially in emergencies. The expressway is seen as a vital infrastructure improvement that will not only alleviate traffic on existing routes like National Highway 60 but also provide a much-needed, efficient connection for residents across the region.

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Not just me, but people living in coastal communes of Sóc Trăng or former Trà Vinh also face this. Normally, it's okay to take a longer route. But when there's a serious illness requiring emergency transfer, the disadvantage is immense. The investment in the coastal expressway connecting to Ho Chi Minh City is the right policy, it aligns with the people's wishes, and will reduce the load on National Highway 60. We have been eagerly waiting for this dream road for many years. Hope it starts soon.