In recent days, the serious deterioration of National Highway 1A, (QL1A) through Binh Dinh province has become a nightmare for people and drivers. It is no longer just potholes, but "death traps" lurking, taking the lives of people.
Lao Dong Newspaper has continuously reported the current situation, not only National Highway 1A, but also National Highway 19 and National Highway 1D through Binh Dinh are struggling in a state of disrepair and degradation. The road surface is full of potholes, peeling, and jagged rocks, causing serious traffic safety problems. Videos of the scene show many people riding motorbikes falling in front of trucks, terrifying. But despite many warnings and reminders from authorities and people, this situation has not been completely resolved, but only temporary, patchwork solutions. The climax was the accident on December 16 that took the life of a poor person on the road to make a living.
It is worth mentioning that this road is being operated and exploited under the BOT form. According to the principle, investors must be responsible for maintaining, repairing, and ensuring traffic safety on the road they are operating, exploiting, and collecting tolls. However, the reality shows an unbelievable level of indifference and irresponsibility.
The responses from relevant agencies after the accident have made the public indignant. Road management agencies and BOT investors all blamed the rainy weather, claiming that the repairs were only temporary because "every time it rains, it breaks down". This excuse is unacceptable.
Binh Dinh police have launched an investigation into the fatal accident involving potholes and damage to Highway 1A. This is a necessary action. However, in addition to finding the fault of the parties directly involved, it is necessary to investigate the responsibility of the units, agencies managing, operating and exploiting BOT on Highway 1A - the damaged section, causing traffic insecurity in Binh Dinh. It is necessary to investigate the responsibility of related individuals and organizations and require BOT investors to fulfill their commitments.
More importantly, the Department of Transport and the People's Committee of Binh Dinh province need to immediately come up with a solution to fix the damage on National Highway 1A, especially near the Lunar New Year, when traffic volume and traffic participants increase dramatically.
We cannot declare a natural disaster emergency like in 2022, then "pour money" into repairs, but not long after, the situation of damage and potential accidents recurs seriously. In particular, we cannot accept the fact that people have to pay to travel on roads full of "death traps".
