Experts worried, Saigon River at risk due to human activities

Experts warn that the Saigon River, with its historical significance and economic potential, is currently facing threats from erosion, pollution, and human encroachment. 

Architect Ho Viet Vinh, speaking at a conference on infrastructure planning for the Saigon River, emphasized the need for intervention to prevent further degradation. Deputy Chairman of the HCMC Urban Planning Development Association, Nguyen Minh Hoa, echoed Vinh's concerns, stating that neglecting the river could lead to future catastrophes.

The Saigon River, which stretches 256 km from Binh Phuoc to HCMC, is particularly vulnerable due to the presence of 47 factories, industrial parks, and other production facilities along its upstream section, posing significant pollution risks. 

In HCMC alone, there are 56 points of encroachment that negatively impact the entire river. Director of the HCMC Department of Planning and Architecture, Nguyen Thanh Nha, mentioned plans to develop spaces along the river, although a comprehensive strategy is still being formulated.

Experts believe that the Saigon River holds immense economic value, but proper conservation and utilization are necessary. 

Hoa suggested that the river has the potential to become as iconic as the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, the Huangpu River in Shanghai, or the Moskva River in Russia.

To achieve this, Hoa proposed the development of ecological villages and similar projects along the river, encouraging community involvement in preservation and development efforts.

However, to make this vision a reality, HCMC needs a comprehensive planning approach rather than dividing land plots for separate projects. Vinh estimated that around 800 ha of riverine land could be earmarked for development.

Source: VNExpress