Ho Chi Minh City considers underground reservoir to ease flooding at Thu Duc Market

Nguyen Kien Giang, deputy head of the traffic works maintenance and operation management division under the city's Department of Construction, said the area's persistent flooding stems from several factors. 

These include basin-shaped terrain, aging and frequently clogged drainage systems, and the absence of proper sewage infrastructure in some neighborhoods.

He added that rapid urbanization has led to a surge in non-absorbent concrete surfaces, while garbage accumulation and canal encroachment have disrupted natural water flow. 

Flooding is often intensified when heavy rainfall coincides with high tides.

To address the issue, the city has outlined multiple anti-flooding projects. Plans include building new drainage systems, dredging the Cau Ngang Canal, and upgrading the drainage infrastructure along Thao Dien, Quoc Huong, Xuan Thuy, and Nguyen Van Huong streets.

Additional projects under consideration include developing the drainage system along Linh Tay stream and improving the Thu Duc Canal section between Cau Ngang Canal and the Saigon River. These efforts are currently awaiting funding approval.

The idea for an underground reservoir was proposed by the Thu Duc Infrastructure Development Center. 

The recommended site is the Linh Tay Football Club at 16 Tran Van Nua Street. 

The underground structure would collect rainwater during storms and gradually release it into the city's main drainage system. 

The surface of the field would still be available for sports and public use, allowing the infrastructure project to double as a community space.