Rach Da Do Canal Near Metro Line 1 Nears Completion in Ho Chi Minh City

The Rach Da Do canal renovation project in Ho Chi Minh City, situated alongside Metro Line 1, is nearing its final stages of completion. After nearly a year of construction, the project, which involved an investment of over 86.7 billion Vietnamese dong (approximately $3.4 million USD), is set to enhance the drainage capacity and urban landscape of the eastern districts.

The canal, running parallel to the Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien metro line and Vo Nguyen Giap Street, serves as a crucial drainage route for the eastern part of the city, channeling water towards the Saigon River and Rach Chiec canal. Previously, the canal suffered from sedimentation, narrowed channels, and blockages due to culverts, leading to stagnant, polluted water and unpleasant odors.

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We have to work overtime to ensure the progress. Normally, workers work from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., with about an hour break for lunch. When we need to speed up, we work through lunch and extend until about 7 p.m.

Construction efforts are currently intense, with workers laboring to meet the project's deadline. The work involves dredging the canal, constructing retaining walls, and completing the embankment on both sides. Significant progress has been made, with many sections already finished, presenting a cleaner and more open appearance. However, some areas are still undergoing construction, with steel frames being erected for upcoming work.

Workers are reportedly increasing their working hours, extending their shifts into the evening to ensure the project stays on schedule. The project's progress is estimated to be between 70% and 80% complete. A key remaining task is to clear the section where Rach Da Do connects to the Saigon River, ensuring seamless water flow. Many workers have set up temporary accommodations at the construction site to facilitate the extended work hours.

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When I first came to take on the job, the canal was covered in water hyacinths, the water was black, and it smelled bad. After dredging and building the embankment, the area is cleaner and more open.