ROK proposes to build Can Tho’s first smart bridge

Can Tho Bridge

Experts would then be able to tell the state of the bridge according to the data they receive, with the aim of discovering damage much sooner than regular tests performed with present technology.

The new bridge would be a proving ground for the technologies of the future in Vietnam and following its success the new smart bridge would become a nationwide model for future bridges to be constructed throughout the nation.

The aim, said Thomas Won, a business director of Planning Korea Company from the ROK, is to make driving faster, safer and reduce congestion. Another advantage of the project is that it could reduce the number of drivers who enter the road on an exit and drive against the flow of traffic.

By warning these people and other drivers of the mistake they are about to make, the system will increase safety for what is a recurrent problem on roadways throughout Vietnam— drivers driving the wrong direction of the roadway.

The digital bridge project would also involve introducing free Wi-Fi access.

Radar sensors have already formed an integral part of driver assistance systems for many years and can for example, ensure that a constant distance is maintained from the vehicle ahead, and initiate or automatically perform emergency braking.

Smart bridges such as that proposed would make it possible to guide vehicles to an emergency stop on the bridge if a vehicle’s sensor system fails, removing the need for emergency braking.

A second signal could simultaneously be sent out to warn other vehicles on the bridge to keep a safe distance away. Obviously, this would avoid any interruption to the flow of traffic, said Mr Won.

In addition, there is even technology available that makes it possible for a bridge to warn vehicles that cars in front of it are about to stop— even before the brake lights go on. Such capabilities are designed to provide drivers with alternative routes and warn them of impending dangers.

Vo Thi Hong Anh, vice chair of Can Tho City People’s Committee asked Mr Won to complete the design for Tran Hoang Na Bridge incorporating some suggestions by the Committee.

The city of Can Tho, he said, has decided to build two new bridges – Tran Hoang Na and Quang Trung – over the Can Tho River, connecting the Cai Rang District with the City centre.