Speaking to the press on 9/4, Nguyen The Minh, Deputy Director of the Department of Construction Economics and Investment Management, announced that four component projects through the central region—Quang Ngai - Hoai Nhon, Hoai Nhon - Quy Nhon, Quy Nhon - Chi Thanh, and Chi Thanh - Van Phong—are finalizing acceptance procedures and adding traffic safety systems for operation in april.
The expressway section through provinces from Quang Ngai to Khanh Hoa has completed 256 km of its main route, with about 12 km remaining for weak soil treatment. The section from the beginning of Quang Ngai province to the south of Cu Mong tunnel is expected to open by mid-april, before the entire route becomes operational by the end of the month.
The eastern North-South Expressway project for the 2021-2025 phase includes 12 component projects, with eight already operational. The remaining four projects, though technically completed in late 2025, have experienced delays in opening due to pending acceptance procedures and the completion of auxiliary items.
Minh noted that these projects faced complex terrain and geological conditions, passing through areas with weak soil. They previously experienced delays due to land clearance issues and material supply constraints. Additionally, typhoon number 13 and widespread flooding in the central region in 2025, along with fuel price fluctuations, also impacted progress.
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Van Phong - Nha Trang Expressway through Khanh Hoa province. Photo: Bui Toan. |
An average of one rest stop every 100 km
Phan Thi Thu Hien, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Road Administration, stated that the entire route is investing in 21 rest stops, with 16 already offering essential services. Several more stops are expected to be completed by 30/4, joining the five existing operational stops.
The entire Lang Son - Ca Mau route is projected to have 23 rest stops, spaced approximately 100 km apart on average, which will largely meet the needs of road users.
According to Hien, the progress of rest stop construction has been affected by fluctuating fuel prices. The Vietnam Road Administration is coordinating with investors to accelerate progress for completion in 2026.
Considering an increase in domestic airfare caps
Regarding the potential increase in domestic airfare caps due to rising Jet A1 fuel prices, Do Hong Cam, Deputy Director of the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, stated that the agency is evaluating options due to the direct impact on citizens. A fuel surcharge option is also under study and will be reported to the competent authorities when necessary.
Currently, Jet A1 fuel supply has improved, with units ensuring enough fuel for travel during the 30/4 holiday. Businesses continue to negotiate and diversify supply sources to meet summer peak demand.
Doan Loan
