Ho Chi Minh City to halt construction of new high-rise apartment buildings in crowded areas: leader

Speaking during a voter meeting with residents from several wards, including Dien Hong, Cho Quan, and Binh Phu, Quang said future high-rise projects must be located further out.

“Large plots of land in the city center will be prioritized for parks and public spaces serving the community,” Quang said.

Quang also revealed that the southern metropolis will launch several major infrastructure projects worth more than US$10 billion in early July.

These projects include a railway connecting Thu Thiem urban area with Long Thanh International Airport in neighboring Dong Nai City, which officials view as a key driver for future economic and social development.

The city leader acknowledged that flooding remains one of the most pressing issues affecting residents despite Ho Chi Minh City’s reputation as one of Vietnam’s most livable urban centers.

“Seeing floodwater enter motorcycle exhaust pipes and stall vehicles during the rainy season is unacceptable,” Quang said.

He added that the city is awaiting an extension for a flood-control project valued at around VND10 trillion ($380 million).

The project, designed to prevent tidal flooding, is expected to be completed by December 31 after being stalled for seven years.

“We demand that the project restart. Otherwise, there will be accountability measures,” he said.

Once the project is put into operation, the city plans to evaluate the project’s effectiveness before developing additional long-term anti-flooding strategies.

The city will also consult with Dutch experts for further solutions.