Can Tho City’s authorities have removed all the locks that were fastened to a newly-built bridge since Valentine’s Day.

Locks on the railing

Can Tho Pedestrian Bridge opened to traffic on February 8 and many couples took the opportunity of Valentine’s Day to profess their love by putting locks on its railings, a custom duplicated from Paris' Pont des Arts. People in love fasten a lock on the bridge railing before throwing the key into the river below. Locals quickly caught on to the trend and opened lock shops nearby.

However, all of the locks were removed on February 23. Duong Tan Hien, chairman of Ninh Kieu District, said they decided to remove the locks to ensure the aesthetic appeal of the bridge, safety for pedestrians and avoid similar case like the Pont des Arts.

All locks are quickly removed

Last year, Paris city officials removed the love locks because part of the bridge's railings had collapsed under the weight over the years.

Can Tho Pedestrian Bridge spans 200m over the Khai Luong Canal. The USD2.2m bridge connects the mainland with Cai Khe Islet and looks out onto Ninh Kieu Wharf. Many important events are also expected to be held on the bridge.