The first project I want to mention here is the ferry crossing. The old, dilapidated ferry crossing, which was steep, narrow, and severely degraded by time and the annual fierce floods, has now been renovated and widened by the skilled hands of the soldiers and workers of Brigade 249, reducing the slope. Now, people and vehicles no longer have to wait as long as before to cross the Phong Chau pontoon bridge.  

Construction workers from Brigade 249 work under the scorching summer sun at Phong Chau wharf. Photo: MINH NGOC

The second project is the narrow concrete road leading down to the ferry terminal, which has now been widened, paved with asphalt, and divided into two lanes, stretching from the beginning of National Highway 32 to both ends of the terminal.  

Workers from Brigade 249 ensure the PMP pontoon bridge operates until 9 PM daily, starting in early June 2025. Photo: MINH NGỌC

Workers from Brigade 249 are working at night. Photo: MINH NGỌC

Construction workers of Brigade 249 work in the summer sun. Photo: MINH NGỌC

Construction workers from Brigade 249 pour concrete for the embankment at night. Photo: MINH NGỌC

The interesting details surrounding this campaign were shared by Mr. Nguyen Van Duoc, Head of Zone 5, and Mr. Bui Ngoc Sang, Head of Zone 4 (Van Xuan commune): Previously, the road leading to and from the bus station was very narrow, and 4-5 seater cars had to go very slowly to avoid each other. Now, two cars can travel in opposite directions at the permitted speed, making it much more convenient.

The villagers also recounted that this project had a "rocket-speed" land compensation and clearance process due to high consensus, taking only three days. When the plan was announced, the soldiers came to the houses, and the households, most of whom were Catholic, immediately agreed to the compensation amount that had been calculated to hand over the land for the soldiers to build the road.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Bui Thanh Tung, Deputy Political Commissar of Brigade 249, during the 18 days and nights of construction, the people brought gifts of fruit, soft drinks, and many other things. He asked for their names so he could address them properly and express his gratitude, but they all refused.

Mr. Nguyen Van Duoc told me that without the pontoon bridge, people would have to take a detour of 25km. I imagine that behind that 25km figure lies a meticulous calculation. They would have to wake up earlier, and spend more time and fuel traveling that distance. The pontoon bridge has helped people avoid the burden of life caused by the uncertainties and risks that could occur along that 25km stretch of road, which are unpredictable.

MANH THANG

    Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/phong-su-dieu-tra/ky-su/tinh-quan-dan-o-ben-phong-chau-834788