A Historic Bridge Faces Destruction
Once a beloved photospot, the 800-meter Ong Cop wooden bridge spanning the Binh Ba River in Dak Lak Province was severely damaged when Typhoon Kalmaegi struck last week. The bridge, which had long been a symbol of local heritage and a popular destination for visitors, now stands in ruins after heavy rains caused the river to swell, undermining its foundational structures.
An official from the Tuy An Dong Commune People’s Committee explained that the rising waters eroded the bridge’s piles and pillars, leading to the collapse of several sections. Additionally, the toll station at the bridgehead suffered significant damage, with its roof blown off and the structure tilting at an angle. This marks the fifth time the bridge has faced severe damage due to storms, with the most recent incident occurring in 2023.
Efforts to restore the bridge are already underway. Nguyen Van Tanh, representing an investment unit, announced plans to begin reconstruction on December 12 and complete the project by the end of January 2026. This initiative aims to revive a landmark that has played a vital role in the community for decades.
A Cultural and Historical Landmark
The bridge is also known as the God of Tiger Bridge because of its proximity to a shrine where locals worship a feline deity believed to cure diseases and ward off evil. This cultural significance adds another layer to the bridge’s importance, making it more than just a physical structure.
For many years, the Ong Cop bridge has been a staple on social media platforms like Instagram. Its unique design and scenic location have attracted countless photographers and travelers seeking to capture its beauty. The bridge, recognized as the longest wooden bridge in Vietnam, was constructed in 1999 at a cost of VND1 billion (approximately US$43,000) to connect villages separated by the Binh Ba River.
Its popularity soared in 2017 after it was featured in the reality show “Vietnam Amazing Race.” Since then, it has become a must-visit spot for tourists traveling to Ghenh Da Dia. Visitors often take their motorbikes across the bridge to explore nearby attractions such as the hundreds of columns and plates resembling a staircase, the 120-year-old Muong Lang stone church, and the serene O Loan Lagoon.
Impact of Typhoon Kalmaegi
Kalmaegi, the 13th storm to hit Vietnam this year, originated as a tropical depression over the central Philippines on November 1. It made landfall in central Vietnam on November 6, causing widespread destruction. The storm battered the region for five hours, damaging numerous restaurants and resorts in the popular beach town of Quy Nhon.
In addition to the damage in Quy Nhon, many areas in Gia Lai and Dak Lak provinces, known as Vietnam’s coffee capital, were also affected. The devastation highlights the ongoing challenges posed by extreme weather events, which continue to threaten both infrastructure and livelihoods in the region.
As the community prepares to rebuild the Ong Cop bridge, there is hope that it will once again stand as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage. The efforts to restore this historic structure reflect the deep connection between the people and their environment, underscoring the importance of preserving landmarks that hold both historical and emotional value.