HCMC – Vietnam will spend nearly VND9.3 trillion (US$385 million) upgrading three national highways in the Mekong Delta, with almost 68% of the funding (US$262 million) coming from a World Bank (WB) loan, according to the Ministry of Transport.
The ministry has submitted a proposal to upgrade National Highways 53, 62, and 91B, aiming to enhance connectivity and improve climate resilience in the region.
The WB loan will cover construction, equipment procurement, and project supervision, while Vietnam will allocate about VND3 trillion for project management, investment consulting, land clearance, and taxes.
The budget has increased by VND2.1 trillion compared to the 2023 feasibility study, mainly due to rising construction and land acquisition costs. However, the scope and route alignment remain unchanged.
National Highway 62 starts from its junction with the HCMC-Trung Luong Expressway to Km74+000 in Long An Province. A new 8-km bypass around Tan Thanh town will bring the total upgraded length to 69 km.
National Highway 91B will undergo a 141-km upgrade from Km2+604 to Km143+480, passing through Can Tho City, Hau Giang, Soc Trang, and Bac Lieu provinces.
National Highway 53 will see expansion of the Nga Tu Bridge and the Long Ho-Ba Si section, along with a new 17.3-km bypass around Vung Liem and Cang Long towns, bringing the total upgraded route to 41 km across Vinh Long and Tra Vinh provinces.
The renovations will elevate the highways to level 3 plain road standards, allowing for designed speeds of 80 km/h.
According to the Ministry of Transport, the upgrades are critical for improving regional connectivity, facilitating trade, and enhancing national security. The improved highway network is expected to boost economic growth and strengthen traffic infrastructure across the Mekong Delta.
