Dong Nai Riverfront Urban Space Reconstruction: Strategic Imperative for Dong Nai Province

Dong Nai Province in Vietnam is strategically prioritizing the comprehensive and scientific reconstruction of urban spaces along the Dong Nai River, the country's longest inland waterway. The province views this vast river corridor as a crucial 'pillar' for driving double-digit economic growth and fostering modern, green, smart, and culturally rich urban areas, alongside the Long Thanh airport. The Dong Nai River, stretching over 586 kilometers, with 234.3 kilometers flowing through Dong Nai Province, is considered the heart of an ecosystem with immense value. Researchers note that few rivers in Vietnam possess the characteristics of the Dong Nai River segment within the province: a wide surface, flat terrain, and a gentle flow. Historically, the river has been a stage for significant events since the 17th and 18th centuries. In 1679, Chinese immigrants established the bustling Cu Lao Pho trading port, and the river is deeply intertwined with the history of the Nguyen Lords' expansion southward. Archaeological artifacts from the Oc Eo, Funan, and Chenla periods have been unearthed along its banks, with many recognized as national heritage. However, the effective exploitation of the Dong Nai River's advantages has lagged behind its potential, partly due to a lack of comprehensive planning. Challenges include underdeveloped technical infrastructure, inconsistent architectural styles, and insufficient community facilities. In many areas, small warehouses, wharves, and makeshift structures occupy valuable land with high landscape potential, hindering riverside urban development and negatively impacting the environment. To address these issues, Dong Nai Province is committed to developing riverside spaces into green, ecologically sustainable areas focused on cultural and tourism services. Ho Van Nam, Secretary of the Party Committee of Tran Bien Ward, highlighted the vision of making the Dong Nai River the axis for urban and service development, coupled with the establishment of a new administrative center in the Bien Hoa 1 Industrial Zone. Recently inaugurated major roads and the Thong Nhat Bridge (564 meters long) have improved regional transport networks, enhancing connectivity between the city center and Cu Lao Pho. Furthermore, the Cu Lao Dai Phuoc area is set to host two large-scale urban development projects totaling over 800,000 billion VND (approximately $32 million USD), aimed at realizing the Nhon Trach urban area and shaping a scientific and innovative division. Eco-city developments such as Aqua City (Long Hung Ward), the urban area at Cu Lao Tan Van (Bien Hoa Ward), and Hiep Hoa (Tran Bien Ward) are positioned as modern, diverse service complexes harmonizing with the natural landscape, contributing to sustainable tourism development. Source: Nhan Dan