At the city's regular press briefing on July 10, officials were asked about the progress of the proposed Red River Boulevard project and detailed planning information that has recently circulated on social media.

Dao Minh Tam, deputy director of the Hanoi Department of Planning and Architecture, said information available on websites and social media platforms claiming to provide access to Hanoi's master plan with a 100-year vision is not official.

"The information from these sources has not been verified," he said.

Online information may be based on draft proposals

Tam explained that urban planning involves multiple levels, from master plans prepared at broad scales such as 1:25,000 and 1:10,000 to zoning plans and detailed planning for individual projects.

During the planning process, multiple proposals may be developed before a final version is approved.

"The information circulating online may simply be one of the planning options being studied during the drafting process rather than the version ultimately approved," he said."None of th is information has been confirmed by the competent authorities."

The Department of Planning and Architecture is currently developing an integrated planning database.

After Hanoi's overall master plan is approved, the department will standardize zoning and master planning data before continuing to review detailed planning for investment projects across the city.

According to Tam, the new planning database is expected to be standardized and integrated into the city's shared digital systems by December 2026.

"Planning information will then be published publicly on the city's official platforms and those of the Department of Planning and Architecture. Residents will be able to access accurate information free of charge," he said.

He also urged residents not to pay for planning information and to exercise caution when using social media platforms that provide unverified planning data.

Authorities to investigate potential violations

Nguyen Thi Mai Huong, deputy director of the Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports, said authorities will coordinate with relevant agencies to verify websites and platforms that publish inaccurate planning information while charging users for access.

"If violations are found, they will be handled in accordance with the law. If the information is determined to be false, the act may constitute the dissemination of false information, which carries fines ranging from VND10 million to VND20 million (US$380 - US$760)," she said.

Public consultation continues on Red River planning

Regarding the Red River zoning plan, Dao Minh Tam said the Department of Planning and Architecture is currently seeking feedback from six ministries and central agencies, following instructions from the Hanoi People's Committee.

The city has also submitted the plan to the Hanoi Party Committee for comments on its key proposals.

Regarding the project's component developments, Tam said the investor is refining proposals for the Red River landscape boulevard, parks, urban areas and related subprojects in line with the city's requirements.

He said comments from residents and experts will be fully considered as Hanoi finalizes the Red River zoning plan.

"The city will also provide comprehensive technical explanations to ensure the planning document fully complies with legal requirements," Tam said.

Thanh Hue