Ho Chi Minh City’s canals revive after major upgrades

Along waterways such as Ba Thon, Ong Hoc, Vo Dong Nhi, Trum Bich and Tho Bot in An Phu Dong Ward, as well as Nuoc Den Canal in Binh Hung Hoa Ward, solid embankments have replaced eroded soil banks.

New, wider roads now run beside the canals, shaded by green trees and bright flowers. In the afternoons, residents gather along the waterfront to exercise, while children enjoy cooler, open spaces to play.

Le Hoai Nam, 69, who lives in An Phu Dong Ward, said he previously had to search for quiet streets to walk for exercise, and sometimes rode his motorbike dozens of kilometres to Gia Dinh Park. For more than a year, the new road along Trum Bich Canal has become his favourite walking route.

“I walk both in the morning and afternoon, about two hours each time. In the afternoon, it’s lively, breezy and the air is fresh, so everyone enjoys it,” Nam said.

The canal renovations have also helped reduce flooding in many areas. At the same time, riverside roads have been upgraded and expanded, easing traffic congestion and improving neighbourhood cleanliness.

“In the past, I didn’t dare open my door because of the bad smell. Now I sit outside morning and evening to enjoy the breeze. Life is completely different,” said Tai, who lives near Tho Bot Canal.

Nguyen Chi Thien, acting chair of An Phu Dong Ward People’s Committee, said the upgrades helped address wastewater discharge, improve sanitation and prevent disease outbreaks in residential areas.

He added that the canal projects, combined with upgraded riverside roads, have also strengthened local transport links.

“Before, many areas had no proper roads, or only narrow dirt paths. Now asphalt or concrete roads have made the whole neighbourhood more open, clean and comfortable,” Thien said.