Majority of public endorse construction of boulevard along Red River in Hanoi

According to the Hanoi administration’s submission to the People’s Council, the Vietnamese capital's population is projected to reach 14-15 million by 2035, 15-16 million by 2045, and stabilize at under 20 million after 2065.

Economic targets are also ambitious. Between 2026 and 2035, Hanoi aims for annual GRDP growth exceeding 11 percent, reaching a total output of about US$200 billion and a per capita income of roughly $18,800 by 2035.

The capital also expects its digital economy to account for 50 percent of GRDP, while cultural industries contribute around 10 percent.

In later phases, Hanoi envisions becoming a globally connected city.

By 2045, GRDP is projected to reach $640 billion, with per capita income of at least $42,000.

By 2065, the city targets a GRDP of $1.92 trillion and per capita income of $95,000.

The plan positions Hanoi as the central hub of the Red River Delta and northern key economic region, supported by a network of satellite cities including Bac Ninh, Hung Yen, Thai Nguyen, Phu Tho, and Ninh Binh.

These areas will be connected through modern infrastructure, including ring roads, radial expressways, and an extensive regional rail system.

Public transportation, particularly metro systems, will play a central role in shaping urban growth.

Hanoi plans to expand its rail network to approximately 1,200 kilometers, including multiple metro lines and regional rail connections, while applying transit-oriented development models.

Urban renewal is another key focus, with plans to preserve and upgrade historic places such as the Old Quarter and French Quarter, while redeveloping aging residential areas and enhancing spaces around West Lake and other cultural landmarks.

The Red River is designated as a central ecological and cultural axis.

Public feedback collected by Tuesday showed strong support for developing the Red River corridor but widespread concern over large-scale clearance, estimated at 2,100 hectares.

Residents from wards such as Hong Ha, Tu Lien, Nhat Tan, Bo De, Hai Boi, and Bac Cau urged the city to prioritize in-place upgrades and recognize existing legal housing instead of mass relocation.

Many proposals favored building the boulevard close to the riverbank, combined with ecological transport models such as slow mobility and autonomous electric vehicles.

Some experts also questioned the feasibility of a second airport in Ung Hoa, suggesting alternative sites in neighboring provinces to optimize regional connectivity.