Beautiful sidewalks, bright cities.

In recent years, the urban landscape of Thai Nguyen has undergone significant changes. Urban space has expanded, many modern and well-maintained streets have been created, and technical infrastructure has been gradually improved. However, alongside these achievements, unsightly aspects still persist, such as sidewalks being encroached upon for business purposes, advertising signs, goods storage, and illegal parking.

The area around the entrance to Hospital A in Thai Nguyen frequently experiences problems with street vendors encroaching on the sidewalk, causing traffic safety hazards and detracting from urban aesthetics. (Photo: Provided)

The encroachment on sidewalks obstructs traffic, endangers pedestrians, and detracts from urban aesthetics. The image of a civilized and modern city is incomplete if, even in central streets, residents and tourists still encounter sidewalks divided by stalls, advertising signs, and makeshift awnings.

Notably, many cases of sidewalk encroachment are linked to the need to earn a living. Street vendors and small shops, which have existed for a long time, often feel resentful when they are removed or relocated. Therefore, urban management and beautification require firmness, but also flexibility and a balance between maintaining order and ensuring livelihoods.

To move towards a civilized and modern urban image, the People's Committee of Thai Nguyen province has just issued Directive No. 09/CT-UBND on strengthening management and beautifying sidewalks and roads, ensuring urban order and aesthetics.

The directive requires relevant departments and units to review and update detailed urban planning, prioritizing renovations on existing roads. At the same time, it calls for increased inspection and strict handling of encroachments on sidewalks and roadways, especially at "hot spots" such as: the entrance to Thai Nguyen Central Hospital, the entrance to Hospital A, Thai Market, Doi Can Street, etc.

However, despite the involvement of authorities, the decisive factor remains community awareness. Sidewalks are public spaces, intended for pedestrians and the common activities of society. When each business owner and each citizen knows how to properly utilize the sidewalk and maintain cleanliness, the urban landscape will change for the better. Conversely, just a few instances of "breaking the rules" are enough to set a bad precedent, leading to negative consequences for traffic and aesthetics.

Experience from many cities shows that when the government is resolute but also provides appropriate support, people are willing to cooperate. For example, designating designated trading areas instead of occupying sidewalks, creating favorable conditions for small businesses; or encouraging regulated advertising instead of chaotic signage. This harmonious approach helps to sustainably solve the "sidewalk problem."

It can be said that sidewalk renovation is a practical action to build a safe, civilized, and modern living environment. Every clear sidewalk is a step forward on the journey to making Thai Nguyen a livable city.

Starting with small things like keeping sidewalks neat and clean, and not encroaching on public spaces, each citizen is contributing to creating a clean, friendly urban landscape. When the community works together, the "face" of the city will surely become brighter, more beautiful, and more civilized.

Source: https://baothainguyen.vn/xa-hoi/202509/dep-via-he-sang-do-thi-0d558ce/