HCMC initiates key flood prevention projects for southern urban area

By Ha Giang    September 28, 2024 | 12:00 am PT
HCMC initiates key flood prevention projects for southern urban area
Tran Xuan Soan Street in HCMC's District 7 is submerged during high tide in October 2023. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran
Ho Chi Minh City has announced two flood prevention projects to raise and build embankment along Tran Xuan Soan Street in District 7, with a combined investment of VND375 billion (US$15.23 million).

The first project will upgrade a stretch of over 3 kilometers along Tran Xuan Soan, from Huynh Tan Phat intersection to Ong Canal. This road will be elevated by more than two meters, and a new drainage system will be constructed to improve water discharge. This segment has a total investment of VND245 billion.

Additionally, a 700-meter embankment project along Tran Xuan Soan has been initiated, with a budget of VND130 billion.

Both projects are slated for completion in 2025, funded by the state budget and managed by the Project Management Board for Construction Investment in District 7, home to a large expat community and the high-end residential area Phu My Hung.

No land clearance is required for these developments.

Tran Xuan Soan Street, which runs alongside Te Canal, has experienced significant flooding during high tides and heavy rains for many years, adversely affecting residents' daily lives.

Previously, this area was included in a master anti-flooding project costing VND10 trillion (US$404 million), which began in 2016 to protect residents from tidal flooding and climate change impacts. However, this project has faced delays due to payment and legal hurdles.

As of now, the master project is over 90% complete, but the exact completion date remains unclear due to payment procedure issues. The HCMC People's Committee has recently proposed adjustments to the project, seeking the prime minister's approval to sign a contract appendix that would facilitate payments to contractors and resume work.

Once operational, the project will help control tidal flooding and address climate change impacts across 570 square kilometers, benefiting approximately 6.5 million residents along the Saigon River and in the city center.

 
 
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