HCMC plans to open more downtown walking streets

Updated: 13:56, 30/09/2020

Ho Chi Minh City is considering a proposal to turn five downtown streets into walking zones to better accommodate residents and tourists.

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Dong Khoi, Le Loi, Ham Nghi, Thai Van Lung and Thi Sach, near the popular walking street Nguyen Hue and just a few kilometers from landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, were proposed as potential weekend walking streets.

Bui Vien walking street in HCMC's District 1, May 2020.

Under the proposal, vehicles would be banned from Dong Khoi Street during weekends similar to Nguyen Hue pedestrian street that blocks traffic from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday.

An official survey revealed widespread support for the plan, though residents, tourists and experts alike opposed a similar zone in District 1 along with 24/7 equivalents on Nguyen Hue, Dong Khoi, etc.

In addition to opening more walking streets, city authorities are considering redesigning the expanded walking zone into bespoke areas, to create culture, shopping and international cuisine areas.

Pedestrian space around Hoan Kiem Lake to be officially operational

The pedestrian space around Hoan Kiem Lake and surrounding areas in downtown Hanoi will be put into operation from January 1, 2020, after three years of trial operation, according to Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee Nguyen Duc Chung.

Pedestrian street – cultural brand of Hanoi

After three years of pilot operation, the pedestrian streets around Hoan Kiem Lake and surrounding areas have become a community cultural space as well as a ‘stage’ for many national and international cultural and tourism activities, attracting more visitors to the capital city.