Nha Trang pilots 13 civilized streets, resolutely addressing sidewalk encroachment

Nha Trang City, a popular tourist destination in Vietnam's Khánh Hòa Province, is taking decisive action to reclaim its public spaces with the launch of a "civilized street" pilot program. The initiative targets the persistent issue of sidewalk and road encroachment, which has long marred the city's appearance and hindered the free movement of residents and visitors alike. This move signals a strong commitment from the local government to restore order and enhance the urban landscape.

The pilot program encompasses 13 key streets, including prominent areas like Lê Thánh Tôn, Hùng Vương, and Trần Phú. These streets are expected to meet stringent standards: clear sidewalks and roads free from vendors, unauthorized parking, and illegal structures. The objective is to eliminate visual clutter and ensure safety, addressing issues such as improperly installed platforms, damaged sidewalks, and illegally placed advertisements that compromise both aesthetics and traffic safety. Furthermore, the initiative extends to managing wastewater discharge onto sidewalks and tackling the problem of unleashed pets.

According to the Nha Trang City People's Committee, the strategy involves a multi-pronged approach. This includes public awareness campaigns, soliciting commitments from businesses and residents, and rigorous enforcement. The authorities are determined to "resolutely handle" violations, aiming for a definitive end to the illegal occupation of public thoroughfares. The success of this pilot phase will pave the way for a city-wide rollout, indicating a long-term vision for a more organized and visually appealing Nha Trang.

From a Vietnamese perspective, particularly in a bustling coastal city like Nha Trang, the reclamation of sidewalks is not merely an aesthetic concern but a matter of public order and economic fairness. While international observers might see this as a standard urban management practice, for locals, it represents a tangible effort to curb the informal economy's excesses that often inconvenience the general public and tourists. The Tuổi Trẻ newspaper, known for its focus on social issues and public interest, frames this as a necessary step towards creating a more pleasant and functional urban environment, reflecting a desire for order and improved quality of life that resonates deeply within Vietnamese society. The emphasis on "civilized streets" speaks to a broader cultural aspiration for orderliness and respect for public space.

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The ward is piloting the construction of 13 civilized streets, ensuring traffic safety and urban aesthetics for agencies, units, schools, and residential groups in the area.