The construction of pipe started in March with a donation of VND1.3 billion (US$ 61,900) from the Viet Nam Young Entrepreneurs Association. — Photo Plo

QUANG BINH (VNS)— A pipe that brings clean water to the grave of General Vo Nguyen Giap on Vung Chua- Yen Island in the central province of Quang Binh Province was turned on yesterday.

The construction of pipe started in March with a donation of VND1.3 billion (US$ 61,900) from the Viet Nam Young Entrepreneurs Association.

The 2.2km pipe is connected to a branch of the Hon La Water Supply Company to provide local people and visitors to the grave with clean water.

According to the provincial government, around 3,000 – 4,000 people visit the General's grave each day, and 90 per cent of them are from outside the province.

Earlier this week, the Ministry of Transport approved a proposal by Quang Binh People's Committee to open a 70km bus route from Dong Hoi Railway Station to the General's grave.

Transport Minister Dinh La Thang has also asked the Viet Nam Railway Corporation to open a railway station near the grave, but according to the corporation, the nearest stations do not run bus routes to the area.

Before Vung Chua- Yen Island Area was chosen as the final resting place for the General, there was no road connecting National Highway No1A to the site.

Construction of a 4km road was completed within five days for General Giap's funeral last October to carry his body from Ha Noi to his native town in Quang Binh Province. — VNS