The expansion of Hanoi Highway, which connects Ho Chi Minh City with its eastern gateway, remains incomplete after 15 years due to ongoing land clearance disputes. Initially launched in 2010 with a budget exceeding VND4.9 trillion (around 192.43 million USD), the project aimed to widen the highway to 12-16 lanes over a span of 15.7 kilometers. However, only an 11.5-km stretch has been finished, and crucial sections remain stalled.

A major bottleneck exists at the tunnel section in Thu Duc City, where construction has been halted since 2023 due to disagreements over compensation for 30 households. Another 2 km section in Binh Duong Province, which includes the crucial Tan Van interchange, is also stuck, with land compensation issues affecting 201 households. Only a portion of the affected families has accepted compensation, further complicating the completion of the road.

This delay has created traffic chaos, with deteriorating road surfaces and unsafe conditions for commuters. Local residents, such as Le Van Tien, express concern over the bumpy roads and narrow lanes, often obstructed by trucks. The expansion’s completion is essential to alleviate traffic congestion and facilitate better access to the eastern parts of the city.

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