Plant beds trampled, trash left behind after National Day parade rehearsal in Hanoi

Tens of thousands of people gathered in downtown Hanoi to watch the rehearsal.

Due to the large turnout, many had arrived as early as noon—some even in the morning—and stayed until midnight.

With the weather fluctuating between sunshine and rain, people brought food, drinks, raincoats, and cardboard to secure viewing spots.

In some areas, the aftermath was a scene of disorder, with trash scattered across streets and sidewalks.

Streets such as Nguyen Thai Hoc, Kim Ma, and Lieu Giai were strewn with discarded raincoats, plastic bottles, plastic bags, and pieces of cardboard.

Despite repeated announcements from the event organizers urging people not to litter and to help maintain the city’s cleanliness and image during the national celebration, the message went largely unheeded.

Many bystanders shook their heads in disappointment at the unsightly scenes left behind.

However, some citizens took the initiative to help. A few volunteers were seen gathering scattered garbage into piles to ease the workload of sanitation workers.

Huong, a local resident, brought bags to collect trash along Kim Ma Street.

“I think everyone needs to be more mindful," she said.

"When attending large public events, especially outdoor ones, we must clean up after ourselves.

"At the very least, take back what you brought or leave it neatly for sanitation workers.

“That’s how we keep the environment green and clean, and also teach the younger generation good habits.” 

Similarly, several families watching the parade rehearsal along Kim Ma guided their children to collect trash into large bags and bring it to collection points.

“We all need to be more conscious to protect our environment. I hope the amount of litter left behind will decrease in future events,” said Hong, another local resident, as she was helping her grandchild gather trash.

Beyond the litter, many plant beds and decorative plants along Kim Ma, Van Cao, and Lieu Giai Streets were trampled and flattened by the crowd.

The sight of crushed leaves and plants left many onlookers dismayed.

Unpleasant scenes of pushing, shouting, and arguing for better viewing spots also occurred in several areas, further dampening the festive spirit.

National Assembly deputy Bui Hoai Son from the Committee for Culture and Society told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that during the nation’s joyful commemoration of the 80th National Day, every individual is not only a spectator but a part of the national celebration and an image of the country.

“Let us maintain order, avoid pushing and shoving, and give priority to the elderly and children so everyone can enjoy the event in safety and harmony,” he urged.

“Dispose of trash properly. Walk gently. Respect every plant bed and patch of grass.

“These are not just the results of others' labor. They are symbols of the nation’s beauty today.

“Let our cheers, songs, and applause become testaments to patriotism, to a civilized, united, and disciplined people.

“When every small action stems from awareness and love for the country, we all help create the most beautiful picture for this national celebration."