Restoration of Dien Khanh Citadel is facing pressure on two fronts: unresolved land handovers and the need to protect unfinished work before the rainy season. The Khanh Hoa project has an adjusted budget of more than 225.5 billion dong and a target completion date within 2026.
The provincial development project management board says construction is about 75% complete. Work on the moat, pumping station, rear-gate bridge and drainage has exceeded 90%, while the earthen ramparts are around 80% finished. Contractors can work on approximately 6.7 hectares, less than the area acquired, because handovers are fragmented and some households are waiting for new accommodation.
Newly built slopes without adequate cover are an immediate concern. Bao Van Hoa's observations on September 7 found exposed soil and rubble along several sections, although management said grass planting was under way in accordance with the design. The concern is a risk of erosion during heavy rain, rather than confirmation that those sections have already collapsed.
The citadel dates from 1793, so progress must also respect original features. The investor is working with local authorities on remaining handovers and asking contractors to complete available sections in sequence. Meeting the deadline still depends on resolving the outstanding work and preparing for adverse weather.