As recently reported, Da Nang’s leaders have unanimously agreed to the construction of a tunnel under the Han River, and highlighted the importance of this project in dealing with future traffic congestion in the city centre. 

A section of the Han River

Fully concurring with the city’s leaders, a freelancer with the DA NANG Newspaper whose pen-name is ‘Tam Dan’ recently wrote an article in which he expressed his opinions on the significance of the project for the interests of local citizens, and for the sake of the city’s future.

The writer proposed that the new river crossing should be considered as a new local modern architectural landmark and a historically important traffic project, demonstrating the city’s strong aspirations to become a modern city.  In addition, the new river crossing will bring a new face to Da Nang in order to secure its position as a city of tourism.

He also clarified that a tunnel, as opposed to a bridge, would help to protect the natural values of the river, especially the water’s surface.

It is also suggested that the focus should be on making designs and identifying suitable investment models for the project in a bid to ensure the tunnel’s long-lasting endurance and fully tap its functionality.  Furthermore, it is also a perfect way to ensure that the new tunnel will link with the local public transport system, especially a future metro network.

In particular, in his article, the commentator underlined the need to make appeals for public investment into the project instead of heavily relying on the city’s budget. 

He also proposed that more public dialogues and meetings between the city leaders and local citizens should be organised to jointly and fairly discuss locally important issues.  This will help to secure a high level of consensus amongst local residents.

It is believed that if a public referendum was to be held, the majority of the local citizens would vote “Yes” to the construction of the new river crossing.