LUANG PRABANG: Luang Prabang authorities have taken the first step towards easing transport bottlenecks with the signing of a contract to study the design and possible impacts of a proposed 80-kilometre ring road and a bridge across the Mekong River.
A Memorandum of Understanding on the study was signed between the Head of the Department of Public Works and Transport, Bongvang Wangjiasa, and a representative of a local company, Saisamphan Chanmavong.
The contract, signed on September 9, covers the survey, design, cost estimation, economic and technical assessments, and environmental and social impact studies of the scheme. The proposed ring road would encircle Luang Prabang city and Chomphet district, according to a provincial official.
Provincial authorities said the ring road would provide an alternative to the city’s narrow streets, which are currently the only routes available for travel through the area.
Without a bypass, traffic congestion is becoming increasingly problematic and experts warn that in the next 20 to 50 years, Luang Prabang could face severe gridlock if no action is taken.
Initial assessments indicate that parts of the route could utilise existing roads, while new sections will be needed, including a link from the city to the Kuang Xi waterfall area and the construction of a bridge across the Mekong to connect with National Road No. 13 North.
The entire route is expected to stretch about 80 kilometres. Feasibility studies and design works are scheduled to be completed within one year, with a local company financing the survey, valuation and impact assessment.
Officials also noted that, prior to the completion of the proposed bridge, a pontoon ferry could be used as a temporary river crossing.
In the longer term, funding for construction may be sought through development loans or private investment under a Build-Operate-Transfer model. - Vientiane Times/ANN
