Accelerating Vietnam’s Infrastructure Development: A Focus on Long Thanh Airport and Expressways
At a recent meeting on July 31, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasized the importance of expediting construction on key national infrastructure projects in Vietnam. His directives to the Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) underline a commitment to not only increasing the pace of construction but also enhancing the quality of work and worker safety. As Vietnam continues to forge its path towards modernization, the government’s initiatives to bolster infrastructure development are crucial in meeting future demands.
Long Thanh International Airport: A Landmark Project
One of the most significant undertakings in Vietnam’s infrastructure landscape is the Long Thanh International Airport. Spanning an impressive 5,000 hectares and with a projected cost of nearly VND 336.63 trillion (approximately US$12.8 billion), this airport is poised to become a cornerstone of the nation’s transportation framework. Located in Dong Nai province, just 40 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, Long Thanh is designed to handle an initial capacity of 25 million passengers and 1.2 million tons of cargo annually.
The National Assembly has recently approved an extension for the completion of phase one to late 2026; however, Chinh’s fervent calls for accelerated work suggest a vision that transcends timelines. He has made it clear that delays are unacceptable, urging all stakeholders to adopt a proactive stance in achieving earlier completion.
A Network of Expressways: Building Connectivity
The government’s focus is not limited solely to aviation; significant advancements are also happening in Vietnam’s expressway network. By August 19, the country expects to boast a remarkable 2,476 kilometers of expressways and 1,397 kilometers of coastal roads. By the end of the year, the aim is to expand expressway coverage to 3,000 kilometers while nearing 2,000 kilometers of coastal road infrastructure.
Chinh has galvanized efforts, calling for “all-out effort” to fulfill these ambitious transport goals. He encourages teams to work “through sun and rain,” with operations running round-the-clock in shifts to ensure schedules are met without compromising quality.
The 500-Day Campaign: Urgency in Infrastructure Development
The government’s recent 500-day campaign is a critical step towards completing an additional 3,000 kilometers of expressways, positioning this initiative as a national priority. Chinh is not only focused on the speed of execution but has also highlighted the imperative of maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and aesthetics.
Emphasizing Quality and Safety
Chinh’s commitment to quality is evident in his insistence that speed should not come at the expense of safety or the visual appeal of projects. He has urged agencies responsible for infrastructure development to enhance landscaping, prevent corruption and waste, and ensure environmental protection is incorporated into every phase of construction.
In particular, he has called for faster land clearance and the timely completion of essential features such as rest stops, toll systems, traffic monitoring, and weight control systems. This holistic approach is designed to ensure that when the new expressways open, they are not only fully functional but also aesthetically appealing.
Creating Seamless Transport Links
The future of Vietnam’s transport infrastructure is also about connectivity. Once the key north-south and east-west expressways are completed, the Ministry of Construction, alongside localities, will investigate how best to integrate these routes with economic hubs, ports, airports, and railway stations. This interconnectedness is vital for fostering efficient transport links, which are essential for economic growth and development.
In sum, Vietnam stands at a crucial juncture in its infrastructure development journey. With major projects like the Long Thanh International Airport and expansive expressway networks in the pipeline, the government is setting the stage for a transportation infrastructure that can support the nation’s ambitions for growth and modernization. The emphasis on rapid yet responsible development reflects a broader vision for the country’s future, where transportation acts as a catalyst for economic prosperity and social connectivity.