Ho Chi Minh City to demarcate 515km of riverbanks for parks, roads

Ho Chi Minh City is set to demarcate 515 kilometers of its riverbanks and canals, a move designed to protect these vital waterways from encroachment and create valuable land for public use, including parks and roads.

The project, formalized by a decision from the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, focuses on establishing clear boundaries for the protection corridors along rivers, streams, canals, and public lakes. This initiative is crucial for managing and utilizing the land along these waterways, particularly those used for primary water transportation. By clearly marking these areas, authorities aim to prevent individuals and organizations from illegally building on or filling in protected land.

Beyond preventing illegal construction, the demarcation will serve as a basis for inspection and enforcement, addressing activities that could destabilize riverbanks or compromise the safety of coastal defense structures. The project also aims to create land for developing essential infrastructure along the waterways, such as roads, water supply and drainage systems, maritime signaling, and flood control structures. Furthermore, it will facilitate dredging operations and create green spaces and public parks to improve the urban environment and landscape.

The city plans to install approximately 20,000 markers along 55 river and canal routes, covering a total length of about 515.9 kilometers. The estimated investment for this demarcation project is over 141 billion Vietnamese dong. In conjunction with this, the Department of Construction has proposed relocating an additional 20,000 houses situated on or near riverbanks and canals, bringing the total number of relocated homes to 40,000. This relocation is tied to broader urban beautification and environmental improvement efforts, aligning with directives to boost economic growth.