The two expressways, passing through Lao Cai, Lai Chau and Son La provinces, would require a combined investment of more than VND114 trillion (approximately $4.4 billion).

Both roads are planned with four lanes, with construction expected to begin in 2027 and operations scheduled to start in 2031.

The Bao Ha - Tan Phong Expressway would stretch approximately 119 kilometers, with preliminary investment estimated at nearly VND51 trillion ($1.96 billion). Of this, almost VND49 trillion would come from the central government budget, while Lai Chau Province would contribute more than VND2 trillion.

The expressway would have a design speed of 80-100 kilometers per hour.

Meanwhile, the Moc Chau - Son La - Dien Bien Expressway section through Son La Province would run for nearly 180 kilometers, with preliminary investment exceeding VND63 trillion ($2.42 billion), funded by the central government budget. Its design speed would be 80 kilometers per hour.

To accelerate construction, the government has proposed special mechanisms covering compensation, financial assistance and resettlement, direct contractor appointments, adjustments to development plans and the designation of construction waste disposal sites.

For the Moc Chau - Son La - Dien Bien project, a separate mechanism has also been proposed allowing the retention of 100% of land-use fee revenues.

The two expressways are expected to strengthen connections between Lao Cai, Lai Chau and Son La provinces and Hanoi, as well as other localities in northern Vietnam.

They would also help complete the expressway network across the country's mountainous northwest, creating new opportunities for socioeconomic development while supporting national defense and security.

Vu Diep