VietNamNet Bridge – In an effort to become a modern and smart city, Hanoi installed free drinking water taps on some streets, receiving an enthusiastic response from tourists and local residents.

A Hanoi resident fills a bottle a free water tap installed in Hoan Kiem District. - VNA/VNS Photo

The taps were installed in Dong Xuan and Hang Da markets, and Son Tay garden in Hoan Kiem District in January by Water Manufacturing JSC No. 3.

According to Nguyen Dinh Tien, Director of Water Manufacturing JSC No. 3, with cutting-edge equipment, the three taps meet the standards of bottled water and requirements set by the Health Ministry.

The taps serve the public, especially those in difficult circumstances who have no clean water for daily use, while contributing to promoting the image of Hanoi as a peaceful, civilised and modern city to foreign visitors, he said.

Luong Phu Thiep, a taxi driver at Dong Xuan Market, said the drinking taps are very useful and convenient for him as he spends a lot of time driving.

“The taps help me save about VND30,000-40,000 (US$1.29-1.72) a day on drinking water,” he said.

Nguyen Thanh Cuc, a porter at Dong Xuan Market, said she used to bring water from home to drink.

“Since the taps were installed, I only need to bring an empty bottle to take water from the taps. It is very convenient and hygienic,” she said.

A tourist from the UK said free public water will help reduce the discharge of plastic bottles to the environment.

Tien said Water Manufacturing JSC No. 3 will install another drinking tap in the Octagon House near Ly Thai To Statue in Hoan Kiem District, expressing his hope that Hanoi will allow the company to set up some taps around Hoan Kiem (Sword) Lake to serve holidaymakers visiting the capital city. 

Source: VNS