Lai Chau province has submitted a proposal to the Prime Minister for the construction of the Bao Ha - Lai Chau expressway. This ambitious project, spanning approximately 163 km with four complete lanes, carries a preliminary total investment exceeding 63.486 trillion dong. The province advocates for its implementation as a public investment, drawing 100% from the central budget within the 2026-2030 medium-term public investment plan. The aim is to complete the road by 2030, recognizing its importance for national development and regional connectivity.

The proposed expressway will begin at the interchange with the Noi Bai - Lao Cai expressway in Bao Ha commune, Lao Cai province. Its route extends to the Ma Lu Thang international border gate in Phong Tho commune, Lai Chau province. The 163 km length is divided into a 49,5 km section within Lao Cai province and a 113,5 km section in Lai Chau province. In Lao Cai, the route largely follows national highway 279, then crosses Khau Co pass via a road tunnel to connect with Lai Chau. The section through Lai Chau runs parallel to national highway 32 before linking with national highways 4D and 12 to reach the Ma Lu Thang international border gate.

This project presents significant engineering challenges, making it one of the most technically complex expressway developments in the Northwest region. The route will feature 122 viaducts and seven mountain tunnels. The preliminary total investment of approximately 63.486 trillion dong includes about 7.545 trillion dong for compensation, support, and resettlement, and 45.666 trillion dong for construction and equipment. The remaining funds are allocated for project management, consulting, and contingencies.

Lai Chau province center. *Photo: Le Hong Ha*

Lai Chau province emphasizes that a public investment model, fully funded by the central budget, is appropriate given the project's nature and the socioeconomic conditions of the Northwest region. This approach also aligns with the capacity for resource mobilization. While the project is planned for the 2026-2030 period, discussions will follow completion regarding a toll collection scheme to partially reimburse the state's investment.

The proposal outlines a division of the project into four component parts: two projects for compensation, support, and resettlement, one for each province (Lao Cai and Lai Chau), and two construction projects for the road sections within each locality. Lai Chau recommends that the Ministry of Construction oversee the construction projects, while the two provinces manage land clearance. To ensure timely completion by 2030, the province also requests prioritized capital allocation within the 2026-2030 medium-term public investment plan and the application of special mechanisms, similar to other nationally important projects.

Once completed, the Bao Ha - Lai Chau expressway will establish a strategic transport corridor, connecting Ha Noi - Lao Cai - Lai Chau - Ma Lu Thang. This crucial link will significantly enhance connectivity between the Northwest region and major economic centers and international border gates, acting as a catalyst for socioeconomic development. Furthermore, it will bolster national defense and security in the border area.

Anh Duy