A new – and free – bridge crossing the Song River in Vang Vieng is now open, in response to complaints about the two-way toll for using the current, centrally located span to reach the area’s main attractions, while also alleviating peak-season traffic.
The toll controversy targets the concessionaire, who built the structure and charges up to 10,000 kip (approx. USD 1.20) for two-way toll paid by pedestrians, cyclists, motorbikes and larger vehicles, according to the Vientiane Times. The levy will end when the concession expires in 2023.
Meanwhile, district officials built a new, toll-free bridge about 5 km upriver near the Vang Vieng Market, which opened in December at a cost of 7 billion kip. Construction began in August 2019 after Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith visited the town.
Acting Governor of Vang Vieng District, Bounchan Malavong, said the district is also building a 6.8 billion kip-road from the bridge to tourist attractions.
Source: Vientiane Times
