National Highway 51 Renovation Causes Prolonged Traffic Jams, Urgent Solutions Needed

Renovation work on National Highway 51 in Dong Nai province, Vietnam, is exacerbating chronic traffic congestion, posing a significant problem for local residents and long-haul drivers. Swift solutions are urgently needed. National Highway 51 is a key arterial road spanning over 72 kilometers, connecting Dong Nai province and Ho Chi Minh City. The section within Dong Nai, approximately 35 kilometers long, has suffered severe deterioration due to heavy traffic from trucks and container vehicles, leading to frequent daily congestion. In response, the Dong Nai Provincial People's Committee allocated a budget exceeding 600 billion VND (approximately $25 million USD) for repairs and upgrades after taking over management of the highway. Construction began in March 2026. However, the narrowing of lanes due to the ongoing work has resulted in prolonged and intensified traffic jams. For years, navigating National Highway 51 has been a "nightmare" for drivers and residents. The current construction has worsened this situation, causing major disruptions to daily life and logistics. Authorities are strongly urged to implement concrete measures to minimize the impact of the construction and ensure the early restoration of the road and smooth traffic flow.