Ho Chi Minh City has officially commenced construction of a pedestrian bridge over the Saigon River, featuring a unique nipa palm leaf design, situated in the heart of the city. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on March 29, marking the start of a landmark project set to be completed by April 30, 2026.

Funded by Nutifood with a total investment of approximately $42 million (1,000 billion VND), the bridge aims to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Vietnam's Reunification Day (April 30, 1975 - April 30, 2025).

According to Tran Quang Lam, Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Transport and Public Works, the bridge features a distinctive architectural design inspired by the nipa palm leaf - an iconic cultural symbol of Southern Vietnam.

The bridge will connect Bach Dang Wharf Park in District 1 (approximately 125 meters south of Me Linh Square) with the riverside park in Thu Thiem New Urban Area, Thu Duc City (at the intersection of Nguyen Thien Thanh Street and N14).

The pedestrian bridge spans a total length of about 720 meters, with a width ranging from 6 to 11 meters. The structure will cross the Saigon River with a main span of 187 meters and a vertical clearance of 10 meters above the water.

Notably, the bridge incorporates a space frame steel arch design - being implemented for the first time in Vietnam - making it one of the world’s most unique and visually striking pedestrian bridges.

The design process, carried out in collaboration with Japanese consultants and experts, involved rigorous calculations to account for wind resistance, seismic impact, and collision risks. Wind tunnel tests were conducted overseas to ensure maximum safety and meet high aesthetic standards.

A representative from Nutifood, the project’s sponsor, expressed the company’s commitment to bringing the bridge to fruition: “With the desire to see the bridge become a reality as soon as possible, we have worked tirelessly with partners and authorities to shorten the preparation time while ensuring quality and safety. As a result, construction has begun a month ahead of schedule,” said the sponsor's representative.

Speaking at the ceremony, Bui Xuan Cuong, Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee, emphasized the symbolic significance of the bridge as an architectural landmark in the city’s urban landscape. He urged all relevant departments and construction units to collaborate closely to maintain progress while ensuring safety, quality, aesthetics, and environmental protection.

“One day soon, this pedestrian bridge will not only serve public transportation but will also become a communal space and a symbolic destination, attracting residents and tourists alike to experience the city’s charm,” Cuong expressed with optimism.

Tuan Kiet