Ben Luc - Long Thanh Expressway targeted for full opening in September, 2026

The Southern Expressway Project Management Unit (SEPMU), under the Vietnam Expressway Corporation (VEC), said on August 17 that work on the Ben Luc - Long Thanh Expressway is being accelerated, with the entire route targeted to open to traffic in September 2026.

Phuoc Khanh Bridge on the Ben Luc - Long Thanh Expressway is fully connected in July 2026. Photo: Pham Tung

Work on the project's construction packages has reached about 99% of the total contract value. Nearly 55km of the approximately 58km-long expressway has been completed. Of this, nearly 30km has been temporarily opened to traffic, while about 25km has been completed but has yet to be opened as connecting roads are still being completed.

Only two construction packages remain underway: package J3-1, covering Phuoc Khanh Bridge, and package XL-NG51, covering the interchange with National Highway 51. Both are now in the final stages of construction.

Under the package J3-1, the main bridge section has been joined, while the contractor is installing guardrails, fire prevention and firefighting systems, and drainage facilities. On the approach bridge, the contractor is carrying out asphalt paving, lighting installation and other related works. The package is expected to be completed in August 2026.

Under package XL-NG51, the contractor has largely completed the overpass crossing National Highway 51 and the N1 ramp bridge. The remaining works include asphalt paving on the bridge deck, crushed-stone base courses, road surfacing and completion of traffic-related facilities. The package is also expected to be completed in August 2026.

The Ben Luc - Long Thanh Expressway runs through three localities: Dong Nai City, Ho Chi Minh City and Tay Ninh province. The section passing through Dong Nai City is nearly 29km long. The expressway plays an important role in strengthening transport connectivity within the Southeastern region and between the Southeastern and Southwestern regions. In particular, once the entire route becomes fully operational, it will create an additional transport link to Long Thanh International Airport, helping ease traffic pressure on the Ho Chi Minh City - Long Thanh - Dau Giay Expressway.

By P. Tung – Translated by M.Nguyet, Thu Ha