With a budget exceeding 442 billion VND (about $18.2 million), Ho Chi Minh City is racing to renovate over 92 kilometers of sidewalks across dozens of major roads in the city center.

Construction workers are operating non-stop in a bid to complete the upgrades before the Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday, repairing degraded sections and giving the city a fresh, more polished look.

According to the HCMC Department of Construction, after many years of use, especially in the central districts, sidewalks have become badly worn, posing risks to pedestrians and diminishing urban aesthetics.

Since early 2025, district-level People’s Committees have launched widespread sidewalk renovation efforts. The aim is to improve pedestrian safety, support tourism, and ensure design consistency with the upcoming Metro Line 1.

On Cong Truong Cong Xa Paris Street, new tiling is already underway. Construction crews have worked continuously for the past three days and expect to finish paving by the next day.

Temporary signs have been placed at ongoing work zones to alert pedestrians.

On Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, new granite paving has been completed, offering a tidy, modern appearance with tree-lined paths. Many foreign tourists have expressed admiration for the improved streetscape.

Meanwhile, on Pham Ngu Lao Street, about 300 meters of sidewalk are being rapidly repaved in the direction of Ben Thanh Metro Station.

At the construction site, heavy machinery is being used to strip away the old surface. Excavators fitted with hydraulic breakers are constantly chipping away at the worn concrete and stone. The powerful vibrations help separate and remove the outdated material.

All the newly paved sidewalks are using granite stone - a material chosen for its durability, strength, resistance to cracking, and non-slip surface. These features make it ideal for sidewalks exposed to harsh outdoor conditions. The use of granite also elevates the city's overall visual appeal.

The Department of Construction emphasized that the project has delivered visible improvements in urban order, pedestrian safety, and public satisfaction.

According to preliminary statistics, Ho Chi Minh City is currently renovating sidewalks on 91 streets, covering approximately 91.7 kilometers in total. The estimated total investment is 442 billion VND. Many of the projects have already been completed, while others will continue into 2026, including those carried over from 2025.

Tuan Hung