Bao Ha - Lai Chau Expressway project advances in Vietnam

Authorities in Vietnam are advancing preparations for the Bao Ha - Lai Chau Expressway (CT. 13) project, a major inter-regional transport route connecting the Noi Bai - Lao Cai expressway to the Ma Lu Thang international border gate.

The proposed 163.5 km expressway will span Lao Cai and Lai Chau provinces, featuring four lanes with a design speed of 80-120 km/h. The total investment is estimated at approximately 53 trillion VND, with implementation planned for the 2026-2030 period. Approximately 50 km of the route will be located in Lao Cai, while 113.5 km will pass through Lai Chau.

A state appraisal council has been established to review the project's pre-feasibility study. Chaired by the Minister of Construction, the council includes representatives from various ministries, including Finance, Defense, and Public Security. The council is tasked with evaluating the project's economic and social efficiency, capital balance, and legal compliance before submitting it to the Government and National Assembly for investment policy decisions.

In Lai Chau, local authorities have completed the pre-feasibility report and are proactively managing land clearance, compensation, and resettlement plans for approximately 660 affected households.