Deputy PM Hoang Trung Hai on November 21 listened to a third report detailing Hanoi’s comprehensive construction plan till 2030 plus an outlined vision up to 2050.

Hanoi will have five satellite cities.

Acquiring PM Nguyen Tan Dung’s guidance, the international consulting group (Perkins Eastman, Posco E&C and Jina) presented in details the plan, especially the difference between the previous and the latest plans.

PPJ’s representative said that the plan must solve matters and challenges that Hanoi has to confront, such as urban traffic, population, preservation of old architectural works and historical value and the urban landscapes.

Besides the core urban area, the expanded urban area and the green corridor, international consulters suggested developing five satellite urban areas, including Soc Son, Phu Xuyen, Xuan Mai, Hoa Lac and Son Tay. The central idea of this plan is preserving the green corridor that will cover 62 percent of the capital’s city area.

According to PPJ, the most important aspect to Hanoi is its network of rivers, lakes and trees, which need to be maintained and developed appropriately.

Minister of Transportation Ho Nghia Dung said consultants must pay attention to necessary facilities for pedestrians. He said that at present, facilities for pedestrians are neglected. The use of too many vehicles would cause great traffic conflicts, affecting the urban environment. The Minister also said build the system of highways and develop the public transport system is urgent.

Hanoi’s chairman Nguyen The Thao emphasized three things that the plan should focus on: the connection of transport infrastructure, the green corridor and the preservation of the Hanoi’s old quarter.

Deputy PM Hoang Trung Hai appreciated the project, saying that it highlights the vision of development and forecasts factors related to population and infrastructure.

The Deputy PM noted that the plan should have a clear itinerary and go further into details. He asked the consulting group to complete the plan to report to the government next week. The Construction Ministry will upgrade and assess the project in December 2009.

VietNamNet/Government’s website