Although Bui Vien pedestrian-only street in the backpacker’s area in District 1, HCMC has yet to be officially opened, thousands of local youths and foreign tourists still rushed to the area on two weekend nights to enjoy dining and entertainment services and witness the animated atmosphere of the street.

Foreign tourists are seen strolling around Bui Vien pedestrian-only street as all vehicles are not allowed there from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. every Saturday and Sunday 

All vehicles are banned from moving onto the pedestrian street from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. every Saturday and Sunday to ensure the safety for visitors.

Earlier, the authorities of District 1 announced that the pedestrian street would not be inaugurated on July 15 as originally scheduled as the sidewalks, underground power and telecom cables, and water pipelines remain unfinished.

According to a source from the Office of the HCMC People’s Committee, the pedestrian street is slated to be opened for the public on August 19.

Currently, dozens of construction workers are racing against time to complete the construction of Bui Vien Street in preparation for the forthcoming opening day.

When in place, the street will be made pedestrian-only from 7 p.m to 2 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Art shows will be held from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. to entertain domestic and foreign visitors apart from dining services.

The Department of Tourism has provided training for vendors and household business owners in the area to help them improve sale and service skills in an effort to attract a large number of tourists.

According to a report of District 1, everyday more than 500 tourists visit the backpacker’s quarter surrounded by Pham Ngu Lao, Bui Vien and De Tham streets. The figure could amount to 2,000 on its busiest days.

SGT