Putting this bridge branch into operation will separate the flow of vehicles from the highway to the city center, reducing traffic conflicts in the An Phu intersection area.
The opening of the N2 overpass branch is a positive sign after many years of Ho Chi Minh City people having to endure many traffic jams at the eastern gateway.
In the context that Ho Chi Minh City's transport infrastructure is always in a state of "chasing" the speed of vehicle increase, putting an additional bridge branch at the key intersection into operation is a commendable effort.
When An Phu intersection is cleared throughout a branch, at least, vehicles will not be concentrated on the expressway stretching for kilometers every peak season.
However, if it only stops at the initial excitement, it is too early.
Reality shows that the N2 overpass branch put into operation only solves part of the traffic flow from the expressway at An Phu intersection.
Meanwhile, An Phu intersection is still a gathering point for many large car lines from the expressway, Mai Chi Tho street, Luong Dinh Cua street, Nguyen Thi Dinh street and towards Cat Lai port. When one link is not completed, traffic pressure immediately shifts to the remaining branches.
Especially, as Tet Nguyen Dan approaches, travel demand increases sharply, while many items are still under construction. This shows that the risk of serious congestion is unavoidable.
According to the plan of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction, after the N2 bridge branch is completed, the HC1-02 underpass is expected to be put into operation before January 15, 2026.
This is information that people are waiting for. Because, with more underpasses, traffic jams at An Phu intersection will definitely be reduced.
People's concern and interest in transport infrastructure projects shows the responsibility of managers. That is, each delayed progress milestone is not just a figure on paper, but is measured by time, costs and the fatigue of people every day.
People do not want to hear promises, what they need is key traffic projects to be completed on schedule, operate synchronously, and be effective.
Opening the N2 bridge branch to traffic is very important, but it cannot be considered a complete success. Only when the entire An Phu intersection is completed, traffic is smooth both above and below the tunnel, will the obsession with traffic jams for many years be truly relieved.
Not to mention, the An Phu intersection is completed, and convenient traffic will help the expressway connecting to Long Thanh airport smoothly.
Hope HC1-02 submarine reaches the finish line on schedule.
