Vietnam's Highway Project Sparks Resident Frustration Over Lack of Access Roads

The My An-Cao Lanh expressway project (Phase 1) currently under construction in Dong Thap province, southern Vietnam, is facing resident dissatisfaction over the lack of essential access roads. While the project has reached about 24% completion, many residents are expressing strong discontent regarding the insufficient provision of "life roads" crucial for their daily activities. This issue has arisen during land acquisition and construction phases, impacting residents' mobility and daily lives as existing access roads are fragmented or rendered unusable. Some residents have resorted to using soil and sand extracted from the project site to create temporary pathways. Expressway network expansion is a national priority in Vietnam, supporting its economic growth. The southern region, in particular, is a key logistics hub experiencing accelerated development, with expressway construction expected to stimulate economic revitalization. However, such large-scale infrastructure development necessitates careful consideration to minimize the impact on local residents' lives and ensure coexistence. This case highlights the importance of balancing development benefits with the preservation of community living conditions. Local authorities are reportedly aware of the residents' concerns and are considering measures for an early resolution. Attention will be focused on whether the prompt development of access roads and concrete compensation or support measures for residents will be implemented.