Ho Chi Minh City trials software for temporary roadway, sidewalk use management

Under the plan, the pilot phase began on Wednesday, with the software system financed by the Ho Chi Minh City branch of the Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT).

Despite its financial contribution to the pilot phase, VNPT will not receive preferential treatment in future contractor selection processes following the trial period, according to the municipal administration.

The Ho Chi Minh City branch of VNPT has been tasked with refining the software based on technical feedback from the municipal Department of Science and Technology and the city’s Digital Transformation Center, as consolidated by the municipal Department of Construction.

The city required the system to undergo periodic cybersecurity assessments and comply with regulations under Vietnam’s Law on Personal Data Protection, the Data Law, and other related data security rules.

The software is expected to connect with the Ministry of Construction’s administrative procedure processing system to ensure synchronization and data sharing.

The municipal Department of Construction is in charge of leading implementation efforts in coordination with the administrations of wards and communes and related agencies.

The department will also provide foundational data needed to configure the system, including lists of streets eligible for temporary use, boundary maps, fees, and relevant administrative procedures.

During the initial stage, the municipal department will select some wards and communes for the pilot program, prioritizing downtown areas and locations with high demand for temporary roadway and sidewalk use.

At the end of the pilot phase, the department will conduct a comprehensive review and advise the municipal government on plans for the next stage.

How sidewalk management software will work

The municipal Department of Construction had previously proposed piloting the software capable of handling permit applications and fee collection for temporary roadway and sidewalk use through VNPT’s digital infrastructure.

The system is intended to fully digitize procedures, including application submission, document processing, permit issuance, and payment collection as demand for permits has risen over 200 percent compared with previous levels.

The software is expected to integrate online application processing, electronic document management, digital map-based permit issuance, fee management, and operational support functions.

The digital platform will help shorten processing times, reduce administrative procedures, and improve oversight efficiency.

Under current regulations, six categories of temporary use may be considered for permits, including political, cultural, and sports events; disaster prevention and rescue operations; construction projects; temporary storage of waste or building materials; weddings and funerals; and vehicle parking when necessary.

However, business and street vending activities will not be eligible for permits, as they are not included among approved categories under Vietnam’s Road Law and the 2025 Public Order Law.