The $1.5 billion Dai River Bridge, a key project connecting Ninh Bình and Nam Định provinces, is nearing completion and awaiting temporary operation. This project is a vital part of the Ninh Bình-Hai Phong expressway, promising significant improvements to transportation and economic development in the region.
Construction and Temporary Opening
Approved in 2022 and initiated in September 2023 in Khánh Cường commune, Yên Khánh district (Ninh Bình) and Nghĩa Thái commune, Nghĩa Hưng district (Nam Định), the bridge is now essentially complete after 18 months of construction. Final touches, including installing guardrails, painting road markings, installing lighting, and placing signage, are underway to ensure safety.
Observations by reporters show construction crews diligently completing the final stages at key points along the bridge. Vehicles and pedestrians are able to navigate the bridge smoothly, marking a significant step forward in connectivity between the two provinces.
Technical Specifications and Location
The Dai River Bridge has four lanes, a maximum speed limit of 100 km/h, is approximately 1.36 km long, and 19.5 meters wide. The bridge approach roads measure approximately 0.64 km in length and 19 meters in width. The project is situated at kilometer 18+116 on the Ninh Bình-Hai Phong expressway alignment, upstream of the Tam Tòa ferry terminal.
Transportation Connectivity and Impact
The bridge connects to National Highway 37B and Nam Định Province’s development highway (DT.490) on the southern side, and the Bái Đính-Kim Sơn road on the Ninh Bình side. This connectivity promises to reduce travel time and boost trade between the two provinces, contributing to local economic development.
However, the Ninh Bình-Hai Phong expressway is not yet complete, leaving the approach road from Ninh Bình to Nam Định as a dead-end. Contractors have placed warning signs and barricades to ensure safety for road users.
Future Outlook
The Dai River Bridge is anticipated to open officially in 2026, concurrently with the completion of the Ninh Bình-Hai Phong expressway. Upon completion, this expressway will significantly boost economic development and improve the quality of life for residents of Ninh Bình, Nam Định, Thái Bình, and Hải Phòng provinces.
Conclusion
The Dai River Bridge, though currently awaiting the expressway’s completion, has already brought positive changes to the region’s transportation infrastructure. Its eventual completion will create opportunities for economic growth and facilitate easier connectivity for the people of both provinces.
Reference
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