Ho Chi Minh City Opens First Section of Xuyen Tam Canal Road, Promising Area Transformation

Ho Chi Minh City has opened the first 1.4 km section of a road along the Xuyen Tam Canal, a project aimed at improving local connectivity and transforming a previously dilapidated and polluted area. This marks a significant step in the larger Xuyen Tam Canal dredging, environmental improvement, and infrastructure development project. The comprehensive project spans over 8.8 km, including a main route of nearly 6.7 km from the Nhieu Loc - Thi Nghe Canal to the Vam Thuat River, and three branches totaling over 2.2 km. The newly opened section, located in An Nhon Ward (formerly in Go Vap District), runs from Luong Ngoc Quyen Street to the Vam Thuat River and is the first segment to be put into use. With a total investment exceeding VND 17.23 trillion (approximately USD 700 million), a substantial portion is allocated for land clearance and compensation. This initiative is considered one of Ho Chi Minh City's large-scale urban and environmental improvement endeavors. Previously characterized by dense, dilapidated housing and severe pollution along the canal, the area now features a two-lane road and newly constructed embankments, offering a more open and pleasant environment for residents. Ongoing work includes dredging, landscaping, lighting, utility tunnels, railings, and sidewalks in sections like the one in front of Van Lang University, with the right bank section slated for completion in November. A box culvert system is also being finalized to enhance drainage and prevent flooding along the canal-side road. Some residents are undertaking renovations of their homes in conjunction with the road infrastructure development. According to Mr. Duong Van Kim, Vice Chairman of the An Nhon Ward People's Committee, the section passing through his ward affected 138 households and organizations. While initial land acquisition faced some challenges, resident consensus on the urban renewal and pollution reduction goals helped accelerate the process. "The first road section opened not only facilitates easier travel for residents but also improves the environment and the appearance of the area," Kim stated. The canal bed will be dredged to a depth of approximately 3.5 meters and a width of 20-30 meters, coupled with the construction of a wastewater and rainwater collection system. Both sides of the canal will feature two-lane roads, sidewalks, parks, and lighting. The project, initially scheduled for completion in 2028, is now exploring options to shorten the timeline, with a target of full completion by the end of 2027.