The road linking National Highway 1A to the coastal square in Cam Hong Commune is estimated to cost approximately VND 210 billion (USD 8.4 million).
"We've seen many uncovered maintenance holes along the road linking National Highway 1A to the coastal square in Cam Hong Commune (formerly Ngu Thuy Bac). If this continues, it will be hazardous. Someone could fall in and get seriously hurt," said Vo Quoc Thuan, a resident of Cam Hong Commune.
One uncovered maintenance cover linking National Highway 1A to the coastal square in Cam Hong Commune (Photo by SKDS)
The 5.5-kilometre route is considered a key piece of transport infrastructure in Quang Tri. Once completed, it will connect local tourist areas and help tap the potential of the coastal sandy region and beaches.
Shortly after being put into use, as many as 189 maintenance hole covers have been found disappearing since March this year. Made of cast iron, each cover is circular, about 70 centimetres in diameter, and designed to seal maintenance holes up to 2 metres deep.
Authorities have recovered 54 stolen maintenance hole covers, now stored for reinstallation. However, along the road, 189 maintenance holes remain uncovered, leaving only their frames in place.
"It's a long and scenic road, but most maintenance holes are left wide open; they're like hidden traps for passers-by. Authorities need to take urgent action to deal with the problem," said a resident.
