Vietnam plans to build more makeshift hospitals
Agencies were asked to research options for multiple hospitals, from setting up field hospitals to converting existing constructions like stadiums into makeshift hospitals. Experienced and reputable units will be asked to prepare everything to carry out the work immediately if the order is out.
Do Thanh Tung, head of the National Institute of Architecture, said examples from the fields hospitals in China, the UK and Russia built during the pandemic showed that there were key requirements that must be met. It must have a suitable location that is far away from residential areas but still connected to transport networks, food sources, electricity, water and good drainage. It must also have enough beds and required equipment. Speed of construction must be quick and environmentally-friendly.
National Institute of Architecture and State Authority for Construction Quality Inspection and Vietnam National Construction Consultants Corporation had discussed and built several plans for hospitals at different scales. Some with 300-500 beds and others with 800-1,000 beds.
Deputy Minister of Construction Le Quang Hung urged the agencies to quickly roll out detailed plans and criteria. He suggested that stadiums or abandoned land can be used.
Department of Technical Infrastructure and Department of Planning and Finance was tasked to set up a list of contractors providing materials and equipment across Vietnam, especially in Hanoi and HCM City.
The Department of Construction Economics will work with other units to research on costs and specific mechanisms for the contractors to save budget and speed up the construction.
