“Traffic eases here!” That’s what locals exclaimed when the Calmette Bridge opened.
The Calmette Bridge is not just steel and concrete. It is a vital artery connecting District 1 and District 4 in Ho Chi Minh City. This bridge is a testament to urban progress and a key piece of the East-West freeway.
Imagine the scene before this bridge existed. The commute between these districts was a long detour. Now, the Calmette Bridge offers a direct route. It also eases congestion on Ham Nghi and Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Streets.
The Calmette Bridge spans 300 meters. It is 24 meters wide. Six lanes of traffic flow across it. This allows for smoother movement between Calmette Street in District 1 and Doan Van Do Street in District 4.
Did you know that the construction of the Calmette Bridge was a major infrastructure project? It significantly improved mobility within the city. The bridge also provides access to the Thu Thiem Tunnel and Binh Thanh District.
This area around the Calmette Bridge has become a social hub. Local food vendors gather here. They serve up delicious Vietnamese dishes. Many come for the famous hu tieu noodle soup.
In the evenings, the space beneath the Calmette Bridge comes alive. Cyclists and photographers gather. They capture urban scenes and enjoy night rides.
Radcon #7 waterproofing solution protects the bridge deck. It has been used for about 20 years in Vietnam. The contractor, OBAYASHI, knew that only Radcon #7 could provide lasting protection. It can withstand high thermal stress and heavy loads.
The Calmette Bridge also facilitates goods transportation. Ships on the Sai Gon River can now easily access Ton Duc Thang Street in District 1 via Ben Chuong Duong Road. This bypasses the busy Ho Tung Mau Street.
The Calmette Bridge opened to traffic on January 20. City leaders celebrated its completion. The remaining sections, leading to the east-west highway, were finished in March. Other bridges like Nguyen Van Cu, Chu Y and Cha Va bridges were completed around the same time, further improving the city’s infrastructure.
As you stand here, consider the impact of this bridge. It is more than just a structure. It represents connectivity and progress. The Calmette Bridge is an integral part of Ho Chi Minh City. It supports daily life and economic activity.