Despite being in operation for only 2-3 years, many bridges which cost thousands of billions of VND have fallen into a state of disrepair, with cracks and erosion.

Cracks and erosion on Thu Thiem Bridge 

Construction on the Thu Thiem Bridge, across Saigon River linking District 2 and Binh Thanh District, started in August 2005, and cost nearly VND1.5 trillion (USD71.4 million) to build. The main part of the bridge was put into use since 2008 and the other parts were completed in late 2010.

However, since 2010, the the bridge section in district 2 has showed serious signs of erosion. The contractors have been struggling to deal with the problem.

In September 2011, erosion spread and the bridge started showing cracks in a number of sections. Despite numerous repairs the deterioration has continued, with erosion reaching 10 metres at some points and concrete bars showing additional cracks.

On June 28, contractors made another attempt to fix the erosion problem but the cracks on the concrete bars have not yet been dealt with.

Phu My Bridge is in a similar state. Open to traffic since September 2009, and costing VND1.8 trillion (USD85.7 million), it is considered a symbol of HCM City. Nevertheless, just a short time after becoming operational the bridge had potholes in the section running through District 2.

Other problems have also been found at many overpasses along Vo Van Kiet Highway, which has only been open for one year.

Phan Phung Sanh, an engineer and Vice Chairman Construction Science and Technique Association of Ho Chi Minh City, said that the areas where bridges are located have weak foundations. Lax geological survey has led to the use of improper foundation consolidation techniques, which can be blamed for the cracks and subsidence. Such problems should be taken into account early in the design process, he said, adding that if cracks recur additional surveys should be done.

Erosion along the road to Thu Thiem Tunnel

Long crack on Thu Thiem Bridge

Cracks on concrete bars on Thu Thiem Bridge