People in Dong Thap Province are in need of financial support to replace an old bridge which plays a key traffic role.
The 25 metre-long, 1.2-metre-wide Vanh Dai Bridge was built 20 years ago. However, the wooden surface has already deteriorated and the concrete piles are already showing aging.
"Thousands of households in Lai Vung Town want a new bridge but our area still has many difficulties," said Luong Cong Binh, vice chairman of Lai Vung Town. "Everyone is worried about the worn-out bridge piers. The authorities tried to reinforce the bridge with steel beams to prevent the bridge from shaking too much during crossing."
Vanh Dai Bridge, crossing the Cai Ban River, is a vital route that leads to Lai Vung District centre and Highway 53. It also connects with Hoa Long Commune and Lai Vung Secondary School. Thousands of people use the bridge on daily basis and traders are frustrated because they can only carry small loads across it.
It's especially dangerous when two motorbikes on opposite directions try to cross the bridge at the same time. One motorbike has to stop and tilt out a little to make enough room for another motorbike. The bridge shakes and looks like it could collapse at any time when more than one vehicle uses it.
Le Thi Dam, a local living near the bridge, said she and her husband often saved drowning people. She was worried about the children using the bridge because it was easy for them to fall off the bridge when trying to make room for a bicycle coming in the opposite direction. "I can't remember how many people and vehicles have fallen into the river," she said.
Luong Cong Binh said he wished to raise a VND500m 3.5 metre wide new bridge. "If there is a shortage, we'll call for contributions from the locals," he said.
According to Binh, the figure was lower than normal because they have a charity group that can help build the bridge.
Deteriorating bridge
Two vehicles trying to cross the bridge
If you can help, please donate through:
1. Code 2098: Helping to build a bridge across Cai Ban River at Hamlet 5, Lai Vung Town, Lai Vung District, Dong Thap Province.
2. Compassionate Hearts Charity Fund – Dan tri Newspaper (Hanoi)
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