Managing public spaces in an orderly manner.

(PLVN) - For a very long time, despite the law clearly stipulating that sidewalks are public spaces intended for pedestrians, in many places, these spaces have been encroached upon and misused indiscriminately. Some people even brazenly rent out the sidewalks in front of their houses for business purposes, treating public property as their personal property.

In implementing the campaign to restore urban order, many localities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have taken decisive actions, confiscating infringing items, strictly punishing those who encroach on sidewalks, and using camera systems to monitor and resolutely prevent re-encroachment. Sidewalks in many places are now clear, clean, and beautiful. Those who previously encroached on sidewalks have understood that their actions not only violate the law but also constitute an illegal profiteering from public space.

However, we must also recognize that if organized properly and in accordance with regulations, "sidewalk economy " is also a part of urban life, a source of livelihood for some people, and a need for some urban residents. The important thing is how sidewalks are managed through planning, licensing, and clear regulations.

That is why the Hanoi Department of Construction is seeking feedback on the draft Resolution of the City People's Council on piloting the management and use of sidewalks for business and economic development. The draft proposes a pilot program allowing organizations and individuals to pay a fee to rent a portion of the road and sidewalk space for business purposes. The streets participating in the pilot program must meet the following criteria: They must not be within the scope of historical and cultural relic preservation; they must not have traffic congestion points; the sidewalks must be at least 3 meters wide and ensure pedestrian access (at least 1.5 meters); at least 50% of organizations, households, and businesses on the street must agree to the pilot program; and a camera surveillance system must be installed covering the road and sidewalk areas if the pilot program is implemented.

According to the draft, the minimum sidewalk rental fee is 20,000 VND, and the maximum is 45,000 VND/m2/month, depending on the area and location. The People's Committee of the ward will receive proposals from individuals and organizations wishing to rent. The pilot period for renting sidewalks, if the street meets the conditions, is a maximum of 2 years, which can be extended twice, each time for no more than 2 years. Those allowed to rent temporary use of the road and sidewalk cannot do so for more than 1 year; this can be extended multiple times, each time for a maximum of 1 year. The pilot program is expected to be implemented in 3 phases, the first phase in some streets in Hoan Kiem and Cua Nam wards; then expanding to some streets in the Ring Road 1 area, and then Ring Road 3.

The current reality shows that many small traders, business households, and enterprises wish to rent sidewalk space. Many believe that the pilot program of renting sidewalks for a fee will limit the encroachment of public areas for illegal business activities. For pedestrians, it will still provide sidewalks for leisurely use. For traders, it will allow them to expand their business space slightly, increasing their legitimate income. For the government, it will increase revenue for the budget. For customers who enjoy experiencing sidewalk services, their needs will also be met. The question of how to utilize sidewalks legally, appropriately, and in a way that benefits all parties is a matter that needs consideration, as the Hanoi Department of Construction is currently addressing.

Source: https://baophapluat.vn/quan-ly-khong-gian-cong-cong-theo-huong-quy-cu.html