The installation of height restriction barriers on the Huu Hong dyke road, from Xuan Truong to Giao Thuy (Nam Dinh province), is causing considerable controversy. Despite traffic signs indicating a 12-ton weight limit, the 2.4-meter height of the barriers prevents even 1.2-ton vehicles from passing.
Barriers Restrict Traffic, Impacting Businesses
The Huu Hong dyke section at km 198, connecting Xuan Truong and Giao Thuy districts, is marked with signs allowing vehicles up to 12 tons. However, the construction and installation of 2.4-meter high barriers on the dyke surface by Xuan Truong 2 JSC (a member of Xuan Truong Group) has severely hindered traffic flow, even for vehicles significantly lighter than the permitted limit.
Road sign indicating 12-ton weight limit on Huu Hong Dyke
Business owner measuring the height of the barrier at 2.4 meters
Numerous businesses in Xuan Truong district are complaining that these height restriction barriers are significantly impacting their operations of transporting materials and goods. Mr. N.V.C, director of a construction company, argues that the Nam Dinh Dyke Management Department’s use of 2.4m high barriers on a national dyke road designated for 12-ton vehicles is a legal violation. In reality, a 12-ton truck has a minimum height of 3.2m, making it impossible to pass under a 2.4m barrier.
6.9-ton truck unable to pass under the height barrier
It’s not just 12-ton trucks; even 6.9-ton, 3-ton, and even 1.2-ton vehicles are unable to pass through the barriers. The incident on May 15th, where a 1.2-ton truck crashed into the barrier, clearly demonstrates this irrationality.
3-ton truck also blocked by the height barrier
1.2-ton truck crashing into the barrier due to height restriction
Authorities’ Explanation and Lingering Concerns
According to Mr. Dang Ngoc Thang, Deputy Director of the Nam Dinh Dyke Management & Flood and Storm Control Department, the installed barriers are designed to be “open barriers,” not completely blocking access. They are intended to allow appropriately loaded refrigerated and container trucks to pass, while preventing overloaded vehicles to protect the dyke surface from damage. Mr. Thang stated that overloaded trucks with modified bodies have significantly degraded sections of the dyke.
Sections of the dyke road surface are damaged
However, the current height of the barriers is causing difficulties for all vehicles, including those within the permitted weight limits. A key question remains: how can overloaded vehicles be identified without weigh stations on this dyke road? Is the barrier installation truly effective in protecting the dykes, or is it simply creating more obstacles for residents and businesses?
In conclusion, the installation of height restriction barriers on the Huu Hong dyke road needs to be re-evaluated to ensure its appropriateness, avoiding negative impacts on business operations and residents’ lives. A balanced solution is needed to both protect transportation infrastructure and facilitate the smooth flow of goods.
