This directive from the Standing Committee of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee aims to enhance management and regulate event organization in the city center, specifically in Saigon ward and Ben Thanh ward.

The directive mandates that events on Le Loi and Nguyen Hue streets must adhere to the annual plan approved by the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee. The city prioritizes activities on Nguyen Hue walking street. However, the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Chairman must approve any unscheduled events or those organized on Le Loi street.

Le Loi street in the center of Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Thanh Tung

The Department of Culture and Sports will develop annual event plans, submit them for approval, and implement them. It will also establish criteria for content, scale, sound, lighting, and environmental sanitation to guide review and licensing.

The chairmen of Saigon ward and Ben Thanh ward people's committees, with related units, will oversee their areas and address violations. The Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Office will monitor, inspect, and advise on enforcement.

Le Loi street, located in central District 1 (now Saigon ward and Ben Thanh ward), spans about 700 m. It runs west-east, linking Ben Thanh Market with Nguyen Hue walking street and Dong Khoi street. The road is 30-35 m wide, featuring multiple lanes and wide sidewalks. Its sides host many commercial centers, hotels, large offices, and it parallels Ho Chi Minh City's Metro line 1.

It serves as a vital transport artery in central Ho Chi Minh City, intersecting major routes such as Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Pasteur, and Nguyen Hue. This connects the Ben Thanh financial and commercial district with the Saigon riverside area.

Le Loi street is in the center of Ho Chi Minh City, connecting Ben Thanh Market and Nguyen Hue street. Graphic: Khanh Hoang

Le Loi street's prime location has led to its frequent use for cultural, entertainment, and brand promotion events. However, because it is a major transport artery, events often necessitate temporary traffic restrictions or full street closures, diverting vehicles to nearby routes like Ham Nghi, Le Thanh Ton, Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, or Pasteur.

During the socio-economic meeting on 27/2, Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Chairman Nguyen Van Duoc noted that the frequent fairs, exhibitions, and commercial events on Nguyen Hue and Le Loi streets have caused significant problems. At times, these events led to severe traffic congestion in the city center.

He added that activities drawing large crowds also create noise pollution, impacting residents. While Nguyen Hue walking street can still host events, the city should prioritize important programs, avoiding excessive or frequent organization.

Le Tuyet