JICA-funded roadside station is put into use

Hanoi (VNA) – A Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-funded roadside
station was officially put into use in the northern Bac Giang province on May 19
after almost one year of construction.
The Bac Giang station, located in Song Khe commune, Yen Dung district, on
National Highway No. 1A, is the last among the three pilot roadside stations
built within the framework of the Study on National Roadside Stations Master Plan
in Vietnam, which was kick-started in February, 2007, with a total investment of
427 million JPY (roughly 4.33 million USD).
Prior to the Bac Giang station, the two other stations in Ninh Binh and Hoa Binh
provinces opened their doors to travellers in February and March.
According to JICA Vietnam Office, the three roadside stations will serve as the
model for more facilities in other provinces. Spending on construction of these
stations was estimated at 115 million JPY (1.16 million USD).
The stations provide not only a place to rest but also public information and
local specialties.
Along with providing assistance for construction of the roadside station, JICA
will share experience with local authorities and train core staff in the operation
and management of the stations.
The Vietnam Road Department hoped that by 2015, Vietnam will have about 80
standardised roadside stations.
Japan ’s roadside station system and regulations has become a model for
many countries in the world as it encourages local people to take part in the
planning and management and promote development of local industries.-Enditem