According to a report on proposed revisions to the Red River Urban Zoning Plan at a scale of 1:5,000, the study area extends for approximately 40km from Hong Ha Bridge to Me So Bridge, covering 16 wards and communes across the capital.
The total area under review spans about 11,418 hectares.
The area currently includes around 3,626 hectares of water surface, more than 5,700 hectares of agricultural land and approximately 1,102 hectares of residential land, home to nearly 280,000 people.
The Red River area (Photo: Nguyen Hai).
Under the revised development strategy, the population is projected to increase to between 800,000 and 1.2 million residents.
Most new buildings are expected to range from 30 to 45 storeys in height. A proposed landmark structure, known as the "Era Tower", would rise to 109 storeys and serve as a new urban symbol for the city.
Traditional villages within the planning area are expected to remain largely low-rise, with buildings generally limited to around three storeys. Detailed assessments will be carried out during subsequent planning stages.
Authorities are also considering the development and elevation of approximately 3,900 hectares of riverbank land. Any construction would be subject to hydrological and hydraulic assessments and flood-control requirements.
The city has pledged to preserve 123 historical and cultural heritage sites, along with traditional craft villages and core areas of settlements with significant architectural, historical and cultural value.
For residents affected by relocation, Hanoi plans to prioritise resettlement within the same ward or commune, or in nearby areas, with the aim of ensuring living conditions equal to or better than those in their current homes.
Initial plans identify around 265 hectares of land for resettlement projects in Me Linh, Vinh Thanh, Dong Anh, Bat Trang, O Dien, Thuong Cat, Dong Ngac, Yen So, Nam Phu and Hong Van.
The proposal also includes multiple mixed-use urban developments and concentrated residential areas that could provide tens of thousands of resettlement plots, apartments and social housing units.
The ambitious redevelopment project is expected to reshape the Red River corridor into a major urban, cultural and economic axis while balancing flood management, heritage conservation and population growth.