HCMC's $29M upgrade of pothole-riddled road gets underway

By Giang Anh June 26, 2025 | 11:18 pm PT

A major road in Ho Chi Minh City, Lo Lu, that was potholed and suffered from frequent flooding is being upgraded at a cost of VND755 billion (US$28.9 million).

The upgrades will cover a two-kilometer stretch of the road in Thu Duc City.

Nearly 1.8 km will be widened to 25 m from around 7 m, including five-meter sidewalks on either side.

The damaged road causes difficulties for road users. Photo by VnExpress/Giang Anh

A section of Lo Lu Street of Thu Duc City, HCMC, seen from above. Photo by VnExpress/Giang Anh

The remaining 300 meters will be 16 m wide with four-meter sidewalks.

Also in the works are a new drainage, greenery and lighting.

Land acquisition for the work will alone cost VND500 billion.

The work is expected to be completed by February 2026.

Mai Huu Quyet, deputy chairman of Thu Duc City People's Committee, admitted that the upgrade has been long overdue.

But the land acquisition and compensation payment have not been completed, and the city administration is urging relevant agencies to speed up the process to ensure the project does not miss its deadline.

Many deep holes in the middle of the road pose a danger to people. Photo by VnExpress/Giang Anh

Potholes along Lo Lu Street are filled with water after a rain. Photo by VnExpress/Giang Anh

Lo Lu is a major traffic artery at the eastern gateway of HCMC, but its severe deterioration over the years has affected the traffic flow and the economy as a result.

Some of its potholes are as large as a car.

The upgrade work, approved in 2017, faced numerous obstacles that delayed it.