The $26-Million Phu Tho Bridge: A Construction Record-Breaker

Construction commenced on December 21, 2024, for the new Phong Chau Bridge, which is being built to replace the old bridge that collapsed due to the impact of Super Typhoon Yagi and the floods on September 9, 2024, disrupting a vital transport link connecting the province’s center to the western districts.

With a total investment of over VND 635 billion from the central budget reserves, the project is led by the Thang Long Project Management Unit as the investor and the Construction Corporation of Truong Son – Army Corps 12 as the contractor.

The bridge has a total length of 653 meters, consisting of 8 spans, a width of 20.5 meters, and a scale of 4 motor vehicle lanes. The bridge design follows the standards of grade III plains roads, with a designed speed of 80 km/h.

After nearly 9 months of rapid construction, working “3 shifts, 4 teams,” overcoming challenges posed by the weather, the contractor completed the main span structure ahead of schedule, taking nearly 2 months off the planned timeline.

Following the completion of the main span, the contractors will continue with the remaining works, including asphalt concrete paving and installation of traffic safety systems. The entire project is expected to be finished by September 30 and will be open for traffic in October, nearly 3 months ahead of schedule.

Senior Colonel Nguyen Tuan Anh, Deputy Commander of Army Corps 12, emphasized that the completion of the main span marks a crucial milestone in the construction process. This event also sets a historical record for bridge construction time in the country, showcasing the dedication and efforts of the direct construction forces involved in the project.

Colonel Anh highlighted the particular significance of the project in restoring National Highway 32C, ensuring smooth and safe transportation, meeting the needs of travel, goods transportation, and rescue activities during the rainy and stormy season. In addition to addressing infrastructure bottlenecks, the bridge will also boost economic development, attract investment, and promote tourism in Phu Tho province and its neighboring areas.

During his inspection visit on August 9, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh acknowledged the valuable lessons learned from the implementation of the new Phong Chau Bridge project. Following the collapse of the old bridge, which caused significant travel difficulties, the Prime Minister directed that this situation be treated as an emergency, and a contractor be selected under special circumstances. As a result, the construction time was shortened by 3 months, and significant cost savings were achieved compared to the initial estimate.

Given the project’s achievements, the Prime Minister proposed that the Ministry of Defense immediately commend and reward the Construction Corporation of Truong Son. He also agreed to use the savings from the bridge construction to expand and improve the connecting roads, ensuring synchronization with the main bridge.