Over 13 kilometers of electrical cable have been stolen from the lighting system at the interchange linking the Phan Thiet-Dau Giay Expressway with National Highway 1A in Dong Nai, causing an estimated loss of VND9 billion (USD345,000) and leaving the entire system inoperable.

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The lighting system at the interchange between the Phan Thiet-Dau Giay Expressway and National Highway 1A was disabled after cable theft. Photo: Hoang Anh

On June 3, the Thang Long Project Management Board, under the Ministry of Construction, announced that restoration work was being carried out at the National Highway 1A interchange of the Phan Thiet-Dau Giay Expressway project following a large-scale theft of infrastructure equipment.

Entire lighting system disabled

According to the project management board, field inspections revealed extensive damage to the lighting system at the National Highway 1A interchange in Xuan Hoa Commune, Dong Nai City.

Investigators found that more than 13 kilometers of electrical cable had been stolen. In addition, numerous cable conduits had been dug up and damaged, rendering the entire lighting network unable to operate.

The theft has not only caused significant losses to public infrastructure but also raised concerns about road safety, particularly at a junction that handles a high volume of traffic.

Project authorities said equipment, manpower and construction materials had already been mobilized to restore the system.

During June, contractors will rebuild damaged infrastructure, reinstall electrical cables and complete system repairs before conducting testing and commissioning procedures.

Damage estimated at $345,000

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A lighting pole along the Phan Thiet-Dau Giay Expressway after electrical cables were stolen. Photo: A.X

"The preliminary cost of repairing damage caused by the theft is estimated at approximately VND9 billion," a representative of the Phan Thiet-Dau Giay Expressway project's investor said.

Project authorities have urged local governments and relevant agencies to strengthen security and protection measures for infrastructure assets to prevent similar incidents from recurring.

The case adds to growing concerns over theft and vandalism targeting transport infrastructure projects, particularly along major expressway corridors.

Hoang Anh