Brian Jeffrey
Under the approval of Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha through Decision 1668, a comprehensive master plan for Hanoi has been established. This plan encompasses all 30 administrative districts of the city, covering an area of 3,359.84 square kilometers. It is structured in phases, outlining immediate goals through 2030, long-term aims by 2045, and a future vision extending to 2065.
By 2030, the population of Hanoi is expected to reach 12 million, accompanied by an urbanization rate of 65–70%. Projections suggest that this number will rise to about 14.6 million by 2045, with urbanization levels surpassing 75%.
The master plan allocates approximately 124,000–125,000 hectares for urban development by 2045, focusing on achieving a balance between advancing infrastructure and maintaining ecological integrity.
New City Developments
The plan includes the creation of three new cities within Hanoi, each designed for specific economic, social, and environmental purposes:
1. **Northern City**: Situated in Dong Anh, Me Linh, and Soc Son, this city will leverage its closeness to Noi Bai International Airport, aiming to evolve into a state-of-the-art urban center. It will focus on fostering innovative and environmentally friendly industries, along with plans for entertainment complexes and a vibrant night economy.
2. **Western City**: Located around Hoa Lac, Xuan Mai, and Son Tay, this area is envisioned as a center for science, technology, and quality education, enhancing its role as a significant scientific and ecological hub through tourist and ecological services.
3. **Southern City**: Comprising Thuong Tin and Phu Xuyen, this region will prioritize public services and logistics, accommodating the movement of manufacturing from downtown areas and becoming a logistics center linked with neighboring provinces like Ha Nam.
Urban Zones and Connectivity
The master plan categorizes Hanoi into five distinct urban zones, each serving unique functions:
· The southern sector of the Red River blends historical and modern urban settings in areas like Ba Dinh, Hoan Kiem, and Hai Ba Trung. Efforts will focus on alleviating congestion by relocating key governmental facilities, educational institutes, and hospitals, converting released land into public spaces and cultural centers.
· The eastern region, including Long Bien and Gia Lam, will concentrate on trade, logistics, healthcare, and educational services.
· The northern area, which encompasses the new Northern City, aims for developments in clean energy, eco-tourism, and smart urban planning that complements the Red River’s natural landscape.
· The western zone fosters national initiatives in science, technology, and eco-tourism, aligning its focus on advanced educational institutions.
· The southern zone emphasizes logistics and industrial growth to enhance economic interconnections with the Red River Delta provinces.
Infrastructure and Future Development
The urban infrastructure in Hanoi is set to revolve around a series of radial and circular roads that link the central city with suburban and satellite regions. Key routes will include Ring Roads 1 to 5, Thang Long Avenue, and important economic corridors such as the Noi Bai-Japan Tan Road.
The master plan also stresses sustainable land management and technological advancement, ensuring that the city’s growth remains environmentally and economically viable.
By 2065, Hanoi aims to be recognized as a leading global urban area in sustainability, innovation, and living standards. The three new cities are intended to play a crucial role in transforming the urban landscape, promoting balanced development, and establishing Hanoi as a significant economic force both regionally and internationally.
Author: Hong Khanh
