Ho Chi Minh City to Cut Power, Water to Violating Construction Projects from October 1

Ho Chi Minh City will cut off electricity and water supply to construction projects and facilities that violate building codes, fire safety, and environmental regulations starting October 1. This measure aims to halt ongoing violations and strengthen urban management, aligning with the Urban Development Law. The decision was passed by the City People's Council on September 22. Under the new regulations, chairpersons of communal-level People's Committees will have the authority to order the suspension of electricity and water to structures that contravene urban planning, are built without permits or exceed permit scopes, deviate from approved designs, encroach on land, or violate fire prevention and fighting (PCCC) or environmental standards. Establishments like karaoke bars that do not meet fire safety requirements, and structures slated for demolition or urgent relocation but remain non-compliant, will also be subject to these measures. The power cut will only be enforced after the violator has been formally notified in writing to cease construction or operations and has failed to comply. Officials will issue violation records within two working days of discovery. The communal People's Committee chairperson will have one day to issue the suspension order. Electricity and water providers must then cease supply within 24 hours of receiving the order. Supply will be restored within 24 hours once violations are rectified. During discussions, some representatives raised concerns about the impact on residents, particularly regarding home renovations. The Director of the Department of Construction assured that the scope would be clarified and that the city would continue to refine urban planning and management regulations. City authorities noted that construction order violations remain a complex issue, especially in rapidly urbanizing areas. From 2020 to 2024, the city averaged 1.36 cases of illegal or non-compliant construction daily. In the first nine months of this year, 629 such violations were detected and processed. Regarding fire safety, the city recorded 228 fires in the first half of the year, resulting in 14 deaths, 27 injuries, and approximately VND 207 billion in damages. Common violations include obstructed escape routes, unsafe electrical systems, and improper use of heat sources. Despite regular inspections and enforcement, some entities continue to violate regulations. The new utility cut-off measure is designed to prevent such persistent non-compliance. This mechanism draws inspiration from Hanoi's experience, where similar measures have been applied to address urban violations. Source: VnExpress