Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway records nearly 25,000 vehicle trips on first day of full operation

On October 2, the Vietnam Expressway Services Engineering Joint Stock Company (VECE) reported that nearly 25,000 vehicle trips were recorded along the entire Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway during its first full day of operation, from midnight on October 1 to midnight on October 2. Toll revenue exceeded VND 1.8 billion.

Nearly 25,000 vehicle trips were recorded along the entire Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway on its first full day of operation. Photo: Pham Tung.

According to VECE, compared with the period before the entire expressway was opened to traffic, vehicle traffic increased by approximately 30%, while toll revenue rose by as much as 140%. These figures indicate that travel demand on the expressway increased significantly on the first day of full operation, as vehicles could travel continuously between the southwestern region and Dong Nai City in both directions without having to pass through central urban roads in Ho Chi Minh City.

To ensure traffic safety on the Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway, VECE advises drivers to familiarize themselves with the route and pay particular attention to speed limits, safe following distances and lane discipline in accordance with the traffic organization plan. Drivers should carefully observe road signs, move into the appropriate lane well in advance when approaching interchanges, and avoid sudden lane changes.

Drivers should exercise particular caution when crossing Phuoc Khanh Bridge and Binh Khanh Bridge. They must strictly observe posted speed limits, maintain appropriate distances from other vehicles and remain attentive throughout their crossing. These bridges have specialized structural features and are frequently exposed to strong winds. Maintaining a steady speed, staying in the correct lane and following traffic instructions are therefore essential to ensuring safety throughout the journey.

Under the traffic organization plan, the Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway is open to passenger cars, passenger buses, trucks and other motor vehicles that meet the applicable requirements. Vehicles prohibited from using the expressway include motorcycles, mopeds, non-motorized vehicles, pedestrians, four-wheeled motorized vehicles designed to carry passengers or goods, specialized motor vehicles, and oversized or overloaded vehicles. Exceptions apply to vehicles authorized to perform management, maintenance, rescue and emergency response duties in accordance with regulations.

On the main carriageway, the maximum speed limit is generally 90 km/h, while the minimum speed is 60 km/h. On the section from Km 16+600 to Km 21+850, the maximum speed limit is 80 km/h.

On Binh Khanh Bridge and Phuoc Khanh Bridge, the maximum speed limit is 80 km/h, and the minimum is 60 km/h. Binh Khanh Bridge extends from Km 21+783 to Km 25+566, while Phuoc Khanh Bridge runs from Km 28+658 to Km 32+451.

On ramps at interchanges, the maximum speed limit is 50 km/h. At certain interchange locations and on connecting roads, the maximum speed limit is 40 km/h.

By Pham Tung – Translated by Mai Nga, Minho