During a meeting of permanent governmentmembers in Hanoi on November 8, PM Phuc said the MoT had actively reviewed BOTprojects, focusing on locations of toll collection stations, and more preciselytheir costs and efficiency.
He hailed the MoT’s efforts indealing with complicated security and order issues at several BOT stations, andthe State Audit Office of Vietnam (SAV)’s auditing work in removingunreasonable fees.
Highlighting the need to addressshortcomings in BOT projects, the PM requested that they ensure the interestsof the State, investors, and the people; thoroughly respond to suggestions frombusinesses and individuals regarding BOT transportation projects; and guaranteesecurity and order at BOT stations.
Regarding electronic toll collection,he asked the MoT to strictly adhere to his directions and the National AssemblyStanding Committee’s resolution on the issue.
The MoT is currently managing 63BOT projects. Last year, it canceled investment in 13 projects which were beingstudied or received approval.
Since 2014, the ministry haspartnered with the SAV, the Government Inspectorate, and inspectors fromministries and agencies to audit all PPP projects.
As many as 48 conclusions on 50projects and 61 audit reports on 55 projects have been issued, based on whichagencies were asked to update, review, and check the legitimacy of constructioncosts during the budget estimate assessment.
The ministry, localities, and BOTinvestors have agreed to reduce fees for vehicles at stations with feasiblefinancial plans and those with various shortcomings.
The portal regarding BOT projects www.ppp.mt.gov.vn has been launched.
Up to 25 electronic tollingstations have been set up so far, which are expected to be available in all BOTprojects by 2019.–VNA