Proposal to Build Underpasses on Ring Road 3: A Solution to Save VND 19 Trillion

The Ho Chi Minh City Ring Road 3 is a key transportation project in the southern region, aimed at alleviating traffic congestion and enhancing regional connectivity. However, the high investment cost remains a challenging issue that needs to be addressed. Recently, Becamex IDC Corporation proposed an alternative solution of building underpasses instead of an elevated highway, significantly reducing budget expenditures, improving economic efficiency, and accelerating project completion.

An Innovative Alternative Solution

During an on-site survey with Binh Duong Provincial Party Secretary Nguyen Van Loi on March 17, Mr. Pham Ngoc Thuan, General Director of Becamex IDC, proposed constructing six underpasses instead of the originally planned 15.3-km elevated highway along the My Phuoc - Tan Van route. According to Mr. Thuan, this solution would not only cut costs but also expedite project completion, ensuring smooth traffic flow without significantly disrupting the existing road network.

Specifically, building an elevated expressway would require a total investment of VND 24 trillion. In contrast, constructing six underpasses would only cost around VND 5.353 trillion, including VND 2.132 trillion for land clearance and VND 3.220 trillion for construction costs. This proposal would save nearly VND 19 trillion compared to the original plan while minimizing environmental and social impacts.

One of the biggest advantages of the underpass solution is its ability to leverage existing roads, minimizing land acquisition and reducing the need for relocating residents along the route. This also helps lower land clearance costs, which are often one of the most expensive components of major infrastructure projects.

Economic Benefits and Feasibility

Becamex IDC has committed to completing the project by 2026 if approved. This means that Ring Road 3 could become operational sooner, benefiting regional transportation and economic development. Once in use, the underpass system would ensure smooth traffic flow at key intersections, significantly reducing congestion risks.

Moreover, compared to an elevated highway, underpasses could help reduce noise pollution and vehicle emissions by keeping traffic at ground level instead of constructing large overhead structures. This aligns with the trend of sustainable urban development, contributing to a more aesthetically pleasing city without negatively impacting the overall landscape.

Additionally, the construction period for underpasses could be shorter than that of an elevated highway, minimizing disruptions to commuters during implementation. For businesses, the new road system would help shorten transportation times, optimize logistics costs, and provide a major boost to regional economic growth.

The Future Prospects of Ring Road 3

The Ho Chi Minh City Ring Road 3 is a strategically important project that plays a crucial role in connecting the southern economic zone. The section passing through Binh Duong is 26.6 km long and links with the Ben Luc - Long Thanh Expressway, forming a key transportation corridor around Ho Chi Minh City. Once completed, this project will significantly reduce congestion in the inner city, shorten travel times, cut logistics costs, and enhance the region's competitiveness.

Furthermore, this road is expected to be crucial in driving the growth of industrial zones, export processing zones, and seaports. With the rapid development of economic hubs in Binh Duong, Dong Nai, and Ho Chi Minh City, the completion of Ring Road 3 will expand development opportunities and create more favorable conditions for businesses and residents.

The underpass proposal by Becamex IDC is a viable solution that ensures traffic efficiency while optimizing investment costs. If approved by authorities, this innovative approach could be a breakthrough for Binh Duong and surrounding areas, paving the way for future urban and economic development. At the same time, this model could serve as a blueprint for other transportation projects, enabling resource optimization and generating long-term societal benefits.

Challenges to be Addressed

Although the underpass solution offers numerous benefits, there are still some challenges that need to be considered. The first is technical issues—when constructing an underpass, it is crucial to ensure flood resistance, especially during the rainy season. Modern drainage systems must be researched and implemented comprehensively to ensure long-term operational efficiency.

Additionally, the construction process may affect traffic on the existing roads. Therefore, developing a well-planned construction schedule, minimizing congestion, and implementing appropriate traffic diversion measures are essential.

Despite these challenges, the underpass solution for Ring Road 3 deserves thorough consideration due to its significant economic and environmental advantages. If implemented properly with close coordination among relevant agencies, this could be a major step forward in the development of transport infrastructure in the southern region.

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