During the recent Lunar New Year holiday, many areas of land and riverbanks in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City were transformed into new parks for residents and tourists. Among them, the area within Ben Bach Dang Park, offering views of the Ba Son Bridge and the entire Thu Thiem Park across the street, attracted many people who came to walk and enjoy the scenery.
However, according to reports from many residents, informal trading has quickly emerged in this area.
On the evening of March 7th, at approximately 8:30 PM, our observations showed that just minutes after the urban order enforcement officers withdrew, a group of street vendors began to arrive and occupy prime locations in the park.
Street vendors arrived immediately after the urban order enforcement officers withdrew on the evening of March 7th.
Motorbikes carrying plastic chairs streamed into the park in droves.
PHOTO: LN
Around 9 PM, public spaces began to be encroached upon...
Rows of tall plastic chairs were transported by motorbikes straight into the park area. Following them, carts selling fried fish balls, soft drinks, rice paper snacks, and other snacks appeared one after another. The plastic chairs filled the park's outer walkway, an area originally intended for people to stand and enjoy the breeze and the view. Behind them, food and drink stalls were set up side-by-side.
Mr. Thinh Tran (residing in Vinh Hoi Ward) said that when coming to this area to enjoy the breeze or stop to rest, if he doesn't buy water, he is likely to be met with hostility from the vendors. In addition, the constant movement of motorbikes in and out of the park and the proliferation of street vendors are narrowing the space for pedestrians, even though this is a place where many families and children play.
Visitors wishing to view the riverside scenery are required to purchase drinks and food.
A bustling scene at the newly completed public space of the wharf, located in Bach Dang Wharf Park, Ho Chi Minh City.
PHOTO: LN
A quick survey conducted by Thanh Nien newspaper with several people present revealed a common desire for authorities to ban motorbikes and street vendors to restore space for pedestrians and ensure safety. Mr. KQ suggested banning motorbikes because the park is full of children running around recklessly, which could cause safety hazards. Mr. Ly Bang also agreed: "Motorbikes and street vendors should be banned to leave space for pedestrians."
Street vendors selling fried fish, rice paper rolls, and other snacks lined the park.
PHOTO: LN
Bustling trade in the public area.
This is the recently renovated area of the B-Ba Son wharf, part of the 1/500 scale master plan for Bach Dang Wharf (District 1, Ho Chi Minh City) - where Bach Dang Wharf Park and other operating inland waterway terminals are located.
PHOTO: LN
Conversely, some argue that commercial activities contribute to the vibrancy of the riverside area. However, clearer planning and management are needed.
"It's a shame they didn't let any businesses bid to build cafes or restaurants to enhance the view of the city center. Leaving street vendors to do whatever they want makes it look chaotic and unsightly," commented An Nguyen.
Source: https://thanhnien.vn/hang-rong-xi-cho-cong-vien-185260309111336828.htm
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