Preserving cultural landmarks and urban characteristics.

Localities nationwide are currently focusing intensely and decisively on implementing the Politburo's and Party Central Committee's conclusions regarding the abolition of district-level administrative units and the development of plans to establish new administrative units by merging existing wards, communes, and towns. The challenge arises from the fact that cities and towns within provinces, considered core urban centers and "leading hubs" with long-standing historical and geographical locations, are being divided, merged, or even erased from existence.

Da Lat city at night. Photo: VNA

In Da Lat City ( Lam Dong province), according to the plan after reorganization and merger, only one ward will remain named Da Lat, while the remaining wards will have to bear different names. This will not only affect the feelings and sentiments of a segment of the population but also impact other issues such as tourism, the brand of vegetables and flowers, and international cooperation. Like Da Lat, many other urban destinations across the country have established themselves on the world map as destinations for tourism, culture, art, and revolutionary history, becoming landmarks, attractions, and sources of trust, such as Sa Pa, Nha Trang, Hoi An, and Phu Quoc.

To avoid a rigid, mechanical approach that risks cultural and historical disruption and negatively impacts the overall, harmonious, and sustainable development of cities and localities, careful evaluation and consultation with the public and scientists are necessary when developing plans for the reorganization, merger, and naming of new administrative units. Administrative place names are not merely geographical areas or boundaries, but also represent resources, soft power, traditional values, development spaces, and even "brands." Appropriate naming will help preserve traditions and achievements, affirm the effectiveness and correctness of the streamlining of the administrative apparatus, and create momentum and resources for the country to enter a new era.

VU DINH DONG

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Source: https://baodaknong.vn/giu-dia-danh-van-hoa-dac-thu-do-thi-247977.html