In just one week, the Huu Nghi – Chi Lang Expressway project will officially open to traffic (December 19). Along its nearly 60 km length, thousands of workers and engineers are working day and night to meet the deadline.
As the first segment of the North-South Eastern Expressway (over 2,000 km, Vietnam’s longest), the Huu Nghi – Chi Lang Expressway project began on April 21, 2024, passing through 11 communes and wards in Lang Son province. With a total investment of over 11 trillion VND, it’s funded through a public-private partnership (PPP).
Once completed, the expressway will provide a fast connection to the Huu Nghi border gate, a major revenue source for Lang Son province through cross-border trade and logistics. From 2013 to 2022, this gate accounted for 78% of import-export turnover and 80% of the province’s total budget revenue.
Moreover, the Huu Nghi – Chi Lang Expressway will connect Vietnam from Lang Son to Ca Mau, linking China with Vietnam and ASEAN. It will also reduce accidents and congestion on National Highway 1.
Across its 59.2 km length, construction is accelerating, with work intensity at its peak. After a period of storms and floods, contractors have mobilized over 2,800 personnel, 1,230 pieces of equipment, and 148 work sites. Progress has reached over 86% of the required volume for the opening.
The project includes 38 bridges, and crews are rushing to complete the bridge surfaces.
Mr. Tran Van Chuan (left), Deputy Director of the Huu Nghi – Chi Lang Expressway Project Management Board, stated, “With limited time left until December 19, we’re determined to accelerate construction, working day and night to meet the opening goal and fulfill the trust of the government, authorities, and people of Lang Son.”
At Km44 (Nhan Ly commune), crews are focusing on spreading aggregate. Nearby, several sections have completed asphalt paving.
Taking advantage of dry weather, this segment operates 24/7 in 3 shifts, maximizing every hour to complete final tasks before the opening.
At Km22+100 – Km22+400 (Dong Kinh ward), asphalt paving is also accelerating.
Here, the asphalt line employs 15 machines and 30 workers, operating from 7 AM to 8 PM daily. With favorable weather, contractors use modern equipment and rollers to lay asphalt.
At Km32 (Chien Thang commune), crews are working on the K98 road base and aggregate foundation, preparing for asphalt paving when conditions allow.
The project aims to open 50 km, including 19 km of asphalt. So far, 7–8 km have been paved, giving the expressway a clear shape before the opening.
Beyond transportation, the expressway will enhance the value of nearby projects like the Viettel Lang Son Logistics Park and the Keo Kham Trade and Logistics Complex.
