Undergoing a profound urban transformation, Ho Chi Minh City is pursuing an ambitious program to rehabilitate its canals. Authorities plan to relocate more than 40.000 households living along the waterways by 2030. This operation aims to clean up the environment, improve living conditions, modernize infrastructure, and create more public spaces.
With over 14 million inhabitants, Vietnam's largest city has been grappling with the consequences of rapid urbanization for decades. Construction along canal banks has progressively reduced their flow capacity, leading to flooding, waste accumulation, and environmental degradation. For the authorities, restoring these waterways is now a key focus of urban development.
Massive investments to restore waterways
Among the most important projects is the renovation of the Kenh Doi Canal. Launched in August 2025, this project represents an investment of over 7.300 trillion dong. It includes dredging the canal, constructing dikes, widening roads, and upgrading utility networks. More than 75% of the budget is allocated to compensation and relocation of affected residents, demonstrating the authorities' commitment to combining urban development with social support.
Project managers also want to expedite the construction of housing for displaced families. A specialized working group has been established to address administrative hurdles and reduce construction delays. The goal is to provide housing located near the original neighborhoods to minimize the social impact of displacement.
A long-term sustainable development strategy
Beyond infrastructure projects, this policy is part of a broader climate change adaptation strategy. Increasing water surfaces, improving wastewater collection, and creating green spaces should strengthen the city's drainage capacity, reduce flood risks, and improve the quality of aquatic environments. Former polluted canals are slated to become places for walking, recreation, and river tourism.
Vietnamese authorities consider this program one of the most important urban projects of the decade. If the objectives are met by 2030, Ho Chi Minh City hopes to offer its residents a more pleasant living environment while strengthening its economic appeal. The modernization of the canals is presented as a key lever for building a more resilient, greener metropolis, better prepared for the climate challenges of the coming decades.
Community
Comments
Comments are open, but protected against spam. Initial posts and comments containing links undergo manual review.
Be the first to comment on this article.