On 11/8, Nguyen Phuc Nhan, Director of the Quang Ngai Department of Construction, announced that the department is collaborating with consultants to finalize the feasibility study report for the project to upgrade National Route 24. This vital route connects eastern Quang Ngai with its western region, extending towards areas historically associated with Kon Tum.

The winding pass on National Route 24 connecting Quang Ngai with Kon Plong and Mang Den. Photo: Doan Vuong Quoc

The preliminary plan suggests a new nearly 14-kilometer road connecting two key points, rather than widening the existing 21-kilometer section from Ba Vi commune to Po E bridge. This new approach aims to address the challenges posed by the current route.

The existing road traverses Vi O Lac Pass, characterized by high mountains, steep slopes, numerous curves, and deep ravines. During the rainy season, this area experiences frequent landslides, damaging the road and disrupting traffic. Expanding the current route would necessitate extensive terrain intervention, including significant work on embankments and steep sections.

In contrast, the proposed new route primarily crosses low hills and several small streams. The design will allow for controlled gradients, optimal curve radii, a robust roadbed structure, efficient drainage systems, and appropriate bridge placements. Once completed, the new route is expected to shorten the journey by approximately 7 kilometers.

National Route 24, spanning about 225 kilometers, serves as a crucial artery connecting Quang Ngai with the northern Central Highlands. It passes through the Mang Den tourist area, a destination Kon Tum province aims to develop into a national tourist area.

Following an administrative merger, this national highway became the sole route connecting eastern and western Quang Ngai. Despite increased travel demand, the approximately 58-kilometer section from Ba Vi commune to Kon Plong remains narrow, featuring dangerous passes, steep slopes, sharp curves, and frequent landslides.

In April, the Quang Ngai Provincial People's Committee approved the investment policy for the National Route 24 upgrade project, allocating a total capital of 2,350 billion VND. The project encompasses areas within Ba To district, including Ba To, Ba Dinh, and Ba Vi communes, and extends towards Kon Plong. The entire upgraded route is projected to be 48 kilometers long, approximately 10 kilometers shorter than the existing road, with a width of 9 meters, an increase of about 3 meters from its current state.

Pham Linh