Hanoi steps up sidewalk clean-up with widespread awning removal

On Hang Ma Street, crews used ladders, metal cutters, and other equipment to quickly remove awnings that extended over public walkways and had long been used for business displays.

Households that typically relied on the sidewalks to showcase goods were instructed to clear the space and move all items back inside their premises.

Ngoc, who runs a paper and lantern shop subject to awning removal, said he understood the city’s direction.

“This is the city’s policy, so we comply. The whole street is doing the same,” he noted.

While many residents supported the city’s move to reclaim sidewalks, other business households worried about the impact on their daily trade.

Thuy, who owns a shop selling decorations and souvenirs, saw her entire extended awning removed on Monday.

She fears the loss of visual appeal will hurt her business.

“We sell decorative items, but if the storefront can’t be beautifully decorated, we’ll lose many customers,” she said.

“People like to visit places that look attractive and offer photo spots. 

"Without that, they’ll just buy online.

“Without an awning, it’s hard to protect these items from rain and wind."

The enforcement aligns with Plan No. 06, issued on November 11, by the city’s Steering Committee 197, which aims to pilot Hoan Kiem, Cua Nam, and Ba Dinh Wards as model urban-order wards.

Urban order and streetscape aesthetics are key criteria for achieving this designation, prompting coordinated campaigns in the coming months to restore pedestrian space and enhance city appearance.

A Hoan Kiem Ward official told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that the work on Hang Ma Street is only the beginning.

“The city’s first phase involves investigation and surveying. Soon we will apply this across more than 100 streets in the ward, not just Hang Ma,” the official said.

In Cua Nam Ward, local authorities said they will maintain frequent patrols, strengthen monitoring, and promote public awareness to build a model ward characterized by order and urban civility.

“When enforcement teams are gone, people return to using the sidewalks for business,” said the leader of the ward.

“Part of it comes from business owners’ awareness, but customer habits also contribute – many enjoy sitting along the sidewalk to watch the street and urban bustle."

To ensure lasting improvements, the Steering Committee 197 plans to expand education efforts and enhance the effectiveness of local administration.