HCMC – Rising water levels in the Red River have once again forced the dismantling of the Phong Chau pontoon bridge in Phu Tho Province, according to local reports.
This marks the second time this month that the temporary bridge has been taken down due to safety concerns.
Phu Tho Province police reported that strong river currents near the bridge prompted the 249th Brigade of the Engineer Corps under the Ministry of National Defense to cut the bridge at 8:30 a.m. on October 16 to ensure public safety. The brigade stated the bridge would be reinstalled once conditions improve.
The pontoon bridge was initially set up on September 30 to replace the Phong Chau bridge, which collapsed on September 9, tragically causing vehicles and people to fall into the river. So far, four bodies have been recovered, while four others remain missing.
Originally designed for pedestrians and light vehicles, the pontoon bridge was first closed after just two days of operation due to strong river currents. Military ferries were used as a temporary solution until the pontoon bridge was restored. However, with the river’s water rising again, the bridge has been closed for a second time.
Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will reopen the bridge when it is safe to do so.
