Ho Chi Minh City updates road signs after administrative merger

The merger, effective July 1, created overlaps in locality names and removed some familiar labels from signs, causing confusion among drivers.

"In some areas, old names have been erased but not yet replaced," said Hoa Van, a truck driver. 

"If new signs aren't ready, old ones should remain for now."

The city's construction department, which took over transportation oversight following a merger with the former transport department, said it issued an order on July 11 for agencies to review and update signage. 

Priority will be given to signs at borders between old Ho Chi Minh City and former provinces.

Urban signs will be updated through the end of 2025 to allow time for adjustment.

Authorities also face challenges from duplicate street names. 

Common names such as Tran Hung Dao, Le Loi, Hai Ba Trung, and Nguyen Van Troi now appear in multiple locations.

Experts recommend adding local sites' names or numbering streets rather than renaming them entirely, to avoid confusion and unnecessary costs.