As Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper observed, construction crews have cordoned off Ben Thanh Market and the square in front of it, deploying fencing and safety barriers.

Large numbers of workers are repainting roof tiles, walls, and curbs as part of the facelift of the iconic downtown landmark.

Along Nguyen Hue Street, lifting platforms have also been mobilized in preparation for similar work.

A representative of Khang Dien said the company began mobilizing hundreds of workers, machinery, and materials from January 18 to accelerate the renovation process.

The project covers the square in front of Ben Thanh Market, the market itself, and major central streets including Nguyen Hue, Dong Khoi, Ham Nghi, and Hai Ba Trung.

It will then extend to Turtle Lake and Nga Sau Phu Dong roundabouts.

“Manpower has been deployed at full capacity to ensure the work is carried out safely, aesthetically, and on schedule as committed to city leaders, helping create a fresh urban landscape for residents during the Lunar New Year,” the company representative said.

Under the plan approved by the Department of Construction, the renovation includes repainting the exterior walls of Ben Thanh Market while preserving its architectural details and decorative patterns, and replacing damaged exterior lighting.

Several nearby buildings, including the Saigon Railway Transport JSC edifice and the building at 181 Ham Nghi Street opposite the market, will also be repainted in their existing color schemes.

Road markings, pedestrian paths, and the square in front of the market will be repainted and decorated.

At Turtle Lake roundabout, the tower will be repainted in brighter tones, curbs and road markings refreshed, trees replanted, sidewalks cleaned, and some surrounding buildings repainted.

Similar works will be carried out at Nga Sau Phu Dong roundabout.

Along Nguyen Hue, Dong Khoi, and Hai Ba Trung Streets, selected buildings will be repainted, while Ham Nghi Street will also see curbs, concrete walkways, and road markings refurbished.

The project is expected to be completed before February 10, corresponding to the 23rd day of the 12th lunar month.

This year’s Tet falls on February 17.

Below are some photos capturing the renovation work at Ben Thanh Market and Nguyen Hue Street on the morning of January 19: