Heavy rains have damaged several sections along the northbound Vinh Hao - Phan Thiet expressway, spanning over 10 km from Ham Thuan Bac commune to Ham Liem commune. Rainwater overflowing onto the roadside embankments has created large gullies and erosion holes.

Damaged roadside embankment on the expressway in Ham Liem commune, 9/9. Photo: Viet Quoc

In Trung Liem village (Ham Liem commune), a significant 5-meter-wide erosion point has developed, cutting deep into the roadbed. The deep erosion at the roadside has created two adjacent "crocodile cracks". Passing vehicles can feel the vibrations caused by these cracks.

Another erosion hole has appeared near a guardrail post. In addition, more than 10 new erosion spots have formed along the route, threatening to spread and further impact the expressway.

Another erosion site along the expressway in Ham Liem commune. Photo: Viet Quoc

Nguyen Khac Viet, director of the Vinh Hao - Phan Thiet project, stated the erosion was caused by recent unusually heavy rainfall. The project team and contractors are working to repair the damaged sections within three days.

A deep erosion hole in the road. Photo: Viet Quoc

The Vinh Hao - Phan Thiet expressway through Binh Thuan province had a total investment of 10,853 billion VND and opened over two years ago. This over-100-km expressway is a section of the North-South expressway in the east, connecting the South Central Coast with the Southeast region, shortening travel time between Phan Thiet, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City.

Route of the Vinh Hao - Phan Thiet expressway. Graphics: Dang Hieu

Earlier this month, heavy rains caused sand to spill onto the expressway, resulting in traffic congestion for several hours. Authorities implemented temporary drainage solutions, directing the accumulated water to flow directly off the road.

Viet Quoc