Hànội Unveils Major Infrastructure Projects to Drive Historic Development Turning Point

Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: Hànội is preparing to launch a series of large-scale and strategically significant construction projects that authorities say will mark a historic turning point in the capital’s development and provide fresh momentum for economic growth.

Central to this vision is the synchronised implementation of two flagship initiatives: the Red River Scenic Boulevard Project and the Olympic Sports Urban Area, both of which have recently received key policy approvals from the Hà Nội People’s Council.

One of the most anticipated developments, the Red River Scenic Boulevard Project, reflects the long-standing ambition to develop modern urban spaces along both banks of the Red River. The project gained fresh impetus following the entry into force of National Assembly Resolution 258 on December 1, which provides a special legal framework and policy mechanisms for its implementation.

With the Hà Nội People’s Council approving the investment policy, city authorities have demonstrated strong political resolve to break ground on the project on December 19. Officials, however, have stressed that careful attention must be paid to the more than 50,000 households affected. Compensation, land clearance and resettlement will be carried out in a humane and convenient manner, ensuring that newly developed residential areas offer improved living conditions and form well-planned urban resettlement zones.

Urban planning for the boulevard will be developed in a modern and forward-looking manner, integrating underground metro lines, urban railways, road networks, bridges and river ports along the Red River. The plan also places strong emphasis on preserving and promoting historical relics and traditional craft villages such as Bát Tràng pottery, Vạn Phúc silk and Phú Vinh bamboo and rattan weaving, closely linking heritage conservation with tourism development.

Legal procedures for the project will be completed in line with the 2024 Capital Law, with the investment policy dossier expected to be submitted to the Prime Minister for approval within six months. Authorities have also underscored the need for rigorous evaluation of potential investors’ capacity, experience and financial strength to prevent speculative exploitation.

Speaking at the 16th session of the Hà Nội People’s Council, Standing Vice Chairman Trần Thế Cương said: “South Korea has the ‘Miracle on the Han River’. If this project is implemented on schedule, to the required quality, and truly reflects the aspirations of the people and leaders at all levels, we can create our own ‘Miracle on the Red River’ for Việt Nam.”

In parallel, the Hà Nội People’s Council has approved the investment policy for the Olympic Sports Urban Area, a massive development aimed at unlocking the growth potential of the capital’s southern region. According to the Hà Nội People’s Committee, the project will enable the city to host major continental and international sporting events, including the Asian Games and potentially the Olympic Games.

Beyond sports facilities, the project will integrate social and technical infrastructure, housing and commercial services, ensuring consistency in urban design, landscape planning and infrastructure development. The project spans more than 9,000 hectares across 11 communes and is divided into four sub-zones.

Sub-zone A will be developed as a transit-oriented new urban area and a major transport hub, supporting the sports complex in Sub-zone B, which will host an international-standard stadium, including the Trống Đồng (Bronze Drum) Stadium. Sub-zones C and D will further expand the sports and service urban model, forming a cohesive, multifunctional complex.

The total projected population of the Olympic Sports Urban Area is estimated at 750,000, with preliminary investment capital of approximately VNĐ925.6 trillion (about US$35 billion). The sports complex and stadium are scheduled for completion by the second quarter of 2030, while the entire project is expected to be finalised by 2035.

An initial independent sub-project—a 2.1-hectare car park serving the sports complex in Sub-zone B—will be implemented first, with an estimated investment of VNĐ72 billion (US$2.7 million).

Together, the two landmark projects are expected to make a significant contribution to Hà Nội’s ambition of achieving a gross regional domestic product (GRDP) growth rate of 11 per cent in 2026. Following the approval of the relevant resolutions, the city plans to hold ground-breaking ceremonies on December 19, marking the 79th anniversary of National Resistance Day and in the lead-up to the 14th National Party Congress.