Gia Bay Bridge - A historical landmark, a bridge connecting development.

Amidst the ever-changing urban life of Thai Nguyen, the Gia Bay bridge spanning the Cau River stands as a testament to history. Having existed for nearly a century, the bridge serves both as a transportation link and a repository of wartime history, industrial life, and the memories of many generations of local people.

Architectural design options for the new Gia Bay bridge construction project.

When Thai Nguyen province decided to invest in the construction of a new Gia Bay bridge in an emergency situation following a natural disaster, a new phase of development was opened. It was a continuation of historical values ​​with a modern structure that ensures safety and aims for long-term sustainability.

The Gia Bay Bridge was built in the early 20th century, between 1928 and 1930. During the war against the US, the bridge became a key target of fierce bombing by enemy air forces aimed at cutting off transportation routes serving production and logistics.

Mr. Thai, over 70 years old, residing in Group 94, Phan Dinh Phung Ward, whose house is right near Gia Bay Bridge, still remembers October 17, 1965, the moment when smoke and fire engulfed the skies of Thai Nguyen. Around 9 a.m. that day, the roar of airplanes filled the air, and Gia Bay Bridge endured several fierce bombing raids. The self-defense fighters of Hoang Van Thu Sub-district bravely held their ground, defending the position. After the bombing, 15 people heroically sacrificed their lives.

Mr. Thai recalled in a somber voice: "The whole neighborhood was shocked at the time, and everyone was in tears. Those memories will never fade from the minds of those who lived through the war."

Mr. Nguyen Quang Vinh, residing in Linh Son ward, shared: "My family has lived near the bridge for decades. After the flood, the old bridge deteriorated, causing concern among the residents. Building a new bridge is necessary to ensure traffic safety. What reassures me is that the province still cares about preserving historical values ​​and continues to place a memorial plaque in a prominent location. Thus, the past is still respected, even though the bridge has a new appearance."

Since its construction, the Gia Bay bridge has undergone many ups and downs, being rebuilt and repaired five times. However, due to the impact of the historic Typhoon Matmo (Typhoon No. 11) in early October 2025, prolonged heavy rains and floods have revealed many structural weaknesses, making the bridge unsafe for operation. In light of this situation, Thai Nguyen province issued an emergency construction order, deciding to invest in the construction of a new Gia Bay bridge.

After nearly a century of service, the Gia Bay Bridge has completed its historical mission. Construction of the new Gia Bay Bridge is scheduled to begin on February 3, 2026, replacing the old bridge which was severely damaged by Typhoon No. 11 in early October 2025.

Mr. Dinh Khac Tan, Deputy Head of the Transportation Project Management Department under the Provincial Investment and Construction Project Management Board for Transportation and Agriculture , said: "The investment in a new bridge is an urgent requirement and has been carefully considered. The new bridge is expected to be over 180m long and 23.5m wide, meeting the traffic capacity and flood drainage needs better than the old bridge. The architectural design is being studied to exploit the symbol of Thai Nguyen's iron and steel industry, combined with the cultural element of tea, a characteristic feature of the locality. In particular, the area for the memorial to the martyrs will be arranged in a suitable space, ensuring solemnity."

The investment in building the Gia Bay Bridge not only aims to connect the two banks of the Cau River, but also serves as a bridge connecting the different periods of time in Thai Nguyen, from an industrial city that endured the flames of war to a city striving for development. As the new bridge takes shape with its sturdy and modern design, it also preserves the memories of the past as a spiritual foundation for the future. History, therefore, does not fade into oblivion, but becomes a cornerstone for the journey of development ahead.

Source: https://baothainguyen.vn/giao-thong/202601/cau-gia-bay-dau-an-lich-su-nhip-noi-phat-trien-b1c75fc/