The Ministry of National Defense has released a detailed planning document for the expansion of Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi. The ministry identifies the square's lawn as a crucial part of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Ba Dinh Square complex. However, the villas to the south currently obstruct the view of the mausoleum and the National Assembly building from Chua Mot Cot Street.
This significantly impacts the landscape and architecture of Ba Dinh Square, a historically important site, and diminishes the solemnity of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The ministry proposes renovating and upgrading the surrounding areas, creating a space for visitors to rest and for cultural and political events. This includes landscaping and green spaces south of Doc Lap Street.
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Location of the four old villas proposed for demolition (marked BT 1-4). Photo: Ministry of National Defense |
Location of the four old villas proposed for demolition (marked BT 1-4). Photo: Ministry of National Defense
The Ministry of National Defense reports four dilapidated villas adjacent to Hung Vuong, Chua Mot Cot, and Ba Huyen Thanh Quan streets. 14 households previously residing in this area have been relocated, leaving vacant land surrounded by government offices. The ministry is seeking approval from the Prime Minister for their demolition.
The four villas slated for demolition are: 25 Hung Vuong Street (925 m2), 4 Ba Huyen Thanh Quan Street (1,133 m2), 66 Chua Mot Cot Street (1,014 m2), and 6B Chua Mot Cot Street (740 m2).
The total area under consideration for detailed planning is 7,191 m2. The square occupies approximately 4,110 m2, comprising 28 grassy areas and concrete walkways. The remaining 3,081 m2 is allocated to traffic infrastructure, including sidewalks and roads.
According to the Ministry of National Defense, expanding the square will restore a section of Hung Vuong Street, allowing for renovations that adhere to approved road specifications. The proposed spatial, architectural, and landscape design complies with regulations outlined in the adjusted detailed planning for Hanoi's Ba Dinh political center.
The expansion will not affect the surrounding architecture, and it will ensure traffic safety, fire prevention, and environmental sanitation standards are met.
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Flag-raising ceremony on National Day, 2/9/2024. Photo: Hoang Phong |
Flag-raising ceremony on National Day, 2/9/2024. Photo: Hoang Phong
Ba Dinh Square, Vietnam's largest square, is located on Hung Vuong Street in Hanoi's Ba Dinh District. Home to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, it has witnessed numerous pivotal moments in the nation's history. On 2/9/1945, President Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence here, establishing the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.
Today, Ba Dinh Square spans 320 m in length and 100 m in width, divided into 210 grassy sections separated by 1.4 m wide pathways. A 25 m flagpole stands at the center. The square hosts parades on major holidays and serves as a popular destination for domestic and international visitors.
Son Ha
