Nipa palm leaf-shaped pedestrian bridge over Saigon River nears completion

After one and a half years of construction, the nipa palm leaf-shaped pedestrian bridge is accelerating progress, with its main span set to be towed from Vung Tau to Bach Dang wharf for assembly, aiming for completion in September.

The pedestrian bridge across the Saigon River is gradually taking shape after 17 months of construction.

The project is being built between Ba Son Bridge and the Saigon River Tunnel. The pedestrian bridge's design resembles a nipa palm leaf, a distinctive symbol of the Southern region. This architecture is considered to create a strong impression, blending the traditional simplicity characteristic of the South with the modernity of current Ho Chi Minh City.

The bridge, measuring 720 m long, 6-11 m wide, and with a clearance of 10 m, provides ample space for boats to pass. The project has a total investment of nearly 1,000 billion VND, sponsored by Nutifood Nutrition Food Joint Stock Company.

{"caption_all":"On the Saigon side (District 1), the piers and approach sections are nearing completion, curving to connect with the main bridge span. The approach leading to Ton Duc Thang street is approximately 239 m long.nnAccording to the design, a circulating waterfall will be integrated into the pedestrian bridge. Functionally, the bridge features a dedicated lane for bicycles and can withstand an ambulance load of up to 3 tons. Both sides offer space for pedestrians to walk, sightsee, take photos, and rest.","caption_items":"["",""]"}

On the opposite side, in An Khanh ward (Thu Duc), the approach roads and bridge piers are also taking shape after one and a half years of construction. The piers are positioned close to the banks to minimize the number of columns in the river, creating a wide clearance for river traffic.

At the An Khanh ward end of the bridge, the project includes two approach ramps, approximately 290 m and 165 m long, connecting to the local traffic infrastructure. One ramp is now formed, awaiting asphalt paving and connection to the bridge piers.

{"caption_all":"According to the design, the approach bridge features very slender beams (25 cm thick), contributing to its light, graceful form, aligning with the nipa palm leaf design while ensuring technical requirements and the overall landscape of the area.","caption_items":"["",""]"}

{"caption_all":null,"caption_items":["The main span connects two arch-cable stayed piers, measuring 187 m long, with steel beams and a cross-section varying from 6-11m. The steel arch of the main span for the pedestrian bridge over the Saigon River is being assembled on a fabrication platform at the factory of Dai Dung Shipbuilding Joint Stock Company, Dong Xuyen Industrial Park, Rach Dua ward, TP HCM. *Photo: Truong Ha*","Viewed from above, the steel arch frame, mimicking the shape of a nipa palm leaf—a distinctive symbol of the Southern region—is gradually taking form. The architectural design, executed by the joint venture of Chodai, Takashi Niwa Architects, and Chodai Kisojiban Vietnam, achieved the highest score in the bridge design competition. *Photo: Truong Ha*"]}

The nipa palm leaf design is expected to ensure an open bridge deck and enhance views for pedestrians. The design team proposed a construction method for the steel arch that involves pre-fabricating components and then transporting them to the site for assembly.

Once completed, the main span will be towed along the river from Vung Tau to Bach Dang wharf, a journey of nearly 80 km, to be attached to the two bridge ends. This towing operation is anticipated around 20/8.

{"caption_all":"The construction site, spanning approximately 5 hectares, maintains continuous activity with engineers, workers, and specialized equipment working to ensure construction progress and quality.","caption_items":"["",""]"}

The project is expected to be completed in September. After the foundation and pier bases are finished, the contractor will proceed with steel structure components, erect the main bridge sections, and finalize the lighting and landscaping systems.

Upon completion, the bridge will connect the existing city center with the new Thu Duc urban area, enhancing the scenic value and boosting the night economy along both banks of the Saigon River.