The Can Tho – Ca Mau Expressway, a vital artery of the Mekong Delta region, is being constructed throughout the Tet holiday in 2025. This national priority project aims to connect the eastern North-South axis smoothly, bringing high hopes for the economic and social development of the western region.
Continuous Construction Activities
Workers paving asphalt on the section through Vi Thang Commune, Vi Thuy District, Hau Giang Province.
While families are gathered for Tet celebrations, thousands of workers and engineers continue to work tirelessly around the clock on the construction site. At Km 47+500 in Vi Thang Commune, Vi Thuy District, Hau Giang Province, the workforce is laying the first 500 meters of asphalt on the road.
Mr. Nguyen Thanh Vinh, Deputy Director of the Son Tra Nam Management Board, stated that the team is implementing 20 construction units with 300 staff. “We ensure an achievement rate of over 65% of the contract value. Notably, 18 bridges have been completed with beams installed and are expected to be finished by the end of March,” Mr. Vinh shared.
Workers cleaning the surface of Lo Da Bridge before paving asphalt.
To motivate the workers, contractors not only pay overtime wages as required but also organize Tet meals and gifts for the workers. Mr. Vo Van Son (46 years old, from Hau Giang), a seasoned worker, expressed his pride in contributing to this significant project. “Despite the hard work, the good salary and stable job make me more committed,” Mr. Son said.
Challenges with Construction Materials
Lo Da Bridge spanning National Highway 61, a key component of the project.
Although the progress is being maintained, the availability of construction materials remains a major challenge for contractors. Mr. Thai Ba Trinh, a technical officer from Construction Company No. 1, noted: “Sand supplies are gradually depleting due to restricted mining permits. We will increase the use of gravel for ballast.”
At the IC4 interchange through Binh Thanh Commune, Phung Hiap District (Hau Giang), machines operate non-stop day and night. The team is focusing on gravel ballasting while maintaining three construction units throughout Tet with about 40 workers per shift.
Significance of the Project for the Western Region
Storage yard for construction materials serving the expressway project in Hau Giang Province.
The Can Tho – Ca Mau Expressway spans over 110 km with an investment of over 27.5 trillion VND, commenced in January 2023. The project comprises two main components: a 37-km section from Can Tho to Hau Giang and a 73-km section from Hau Giang to Ca Mau.
According to the My Thuan Project Management Board, as of January 2025, the construction output has reached 58%. Currently, there are 234 construction units involving 2,881 personnel and 926 machinery.
The project not only addresses transportation issues but also promotes comprehensive economic and social development across the Mekong Delta region. Upon completion at the end of 2025, the expressway will reduce travel time between western provinces, facilitating cargo transport and tourism.
Conclusion
The Can Tho – Ca Mau Expressway is a symbol of relentless effort in Vietnam’s transportation sector. Despite numerous challenges, particularly with material supply and tight deadlines, contractors persistently fulfill their commitments. People in the western region can hope that this expressway will soon become a reality, bringing significant benefits to both lives and the economy of the area.
For more detailed information about the project, readers can refer to official sources or contact the My Thuan Project Management Board directly.
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