Water coconut leaf-shaped bridge to transform Saigon River into HCMC's newest landmark

A water coconut leaf-shaped pedestrian bridge is taking shape across the Saigon River in downtown Ho Chi Minh City, with its 187-meter main span set for installation within this month for completion in September. The bridge's piers and approach structure on the side facing Nguyen Hue walking street are nearing completion as they curve toward the main span. The approach connecting the bridge to Ton Duc Thang Street stretches approximately 239 meters in length. The design features a recirculating waterfall integrated directly into the structure. It will also include a dedicated bicycle lane and is engineered to safely support ambulances weighing up to three tons. Designated spaces on both sides of the bridge will allow pedestrians to rest, take photographs, and enjoy the surrounding views. The An Khanh end will feature two approach branches, measuring approximately 290 m and 165 m in length, designed to seamlessly connect the bridge to the surrounding transport infrastructure. One of these branches has already taken shape and is awaiting asphalt paving and final connection to the bridge piers. The approaches feature slender beams measuring just 25 cm thick. This design choice creates a light appearance that complements the overarching water coconut leaf concept, while still meeting all structural and landscaping requirements. The 187-m main span connecting the two bridge piers will feature a cable-stayed arch design, complete with a steel girder and a cross-section varying from 6 to 11 m in width. The steel arch for the main span is being assembled on a construction platform at the Dai Dung Shipbuilding JSC factory, located in the Dong Xuyen Industrial Park in Rach Dua Ward, which is formerly part of Vung Tau City. Photo by Truong Ha Viewed from above, the steel arch is taking form, showcasing the shape of a water coconut leaf. The architectural concept was developed by a consortium comprising Chodai, Takashi Niwa Architects, and Chodai Kisojiban Vietnam. The team's collaborative proposal previously secured the highest score in the project's official design competition. Photo by Truong Ha The leaf-inspired design aims to create an open bridge deck, providing pedestrians with expansive, unobstructed views of the river. To streamline the construction process, the design team proposed fabricating the steel arch components off-site before transporting them to the final location for assembly. Once complete, the massive main span will be towed nearly 80 kilometers along the river from Vung Tau to Bach Dang Wharf. There, it will be hoisted and connected to the two approach structures. This crucial installation phase is expected to take place around Aug. 20. Construction is continuing around the clock at the approximately five-hectare site, with engineers, workers and specialized equipment deployed to maintain the project's schedule and quality. Construction is continuing around the clock at the approximately five-hectare site, with engineers, workers and specialized equipment deployed to maintain the project's schedule and quality. Construction is continuing around the clock at the approximately five-hectare site, with engineers, workers and specialized equipment deployed to maintain the project's schedule and quality. The project is expected to reach completion this September. After finishing the foundations and pier bases, contractors will proceed with the steel structural work. The final phases will include installing the bridge's main components and completing the architectural lighting and landscaping systems. Once operational, the bridge will connect Ho Chi Minh City's historic downtown with the new urban developments across the river. This addition aims to enhance the city's riverfront landscape while supporting the growth of the nighttime economy along both banks of the Saigon River.