Despite increased enforcement by authorities in Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City, sidewalk encroachments continue to resurface, especially in busy commercial areas, as vendors return once inspections end.

Recent reports by Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper highlighted the rampant encroachment on Ho Chi Minh City’s sidewalks, with Binh Thanh being a particular hotspot.

Responding to public concern and the reports by Tuoi Tre, the Binh Thanh District administration has directed relevant units and grassroots-level authorities to intensify efforts to maintain order on sidewalks and streets.

Patrols, inspections, and enforcement actions have been increased, especially in areas identified by Tuoi Tre as having severe encroachment, Nguyen Ngoc Minh, deputy head of the district’s economic, infrastructure and urban management division, said at a city press conference on Thursday.

Since late February, Binh Thanh has issued dozens of violation notices and fines. 

In Ward 1, 19 violations resulted in over VND27 million (US$1,055) in penalties.

In Ward 25, particularly along Nguyen Gia Tri (formerly D2) Street, nearly VND97 million ($3,800) in fines were issued for 56 cases.

Authorities also seized numerous items such as food carts, signs, and tables.

However, Minh acknowledged that some wards have not consistently implemented these measures, leading to persistent problems. 

While some areas have shown improvement, the changes are not deeply rooted, and violations recur, particularly in unlicensed trading zones.

He attributed the problem to the district’s dense population and the influx of migrant workers who rely on street vending and mobile stalls for their livelihood. 

These individuals quickly disperse or evade authorities during inspections, only to return when law enforcement leaves.

The district has instructed its urban management team and grassroots-level authorities to intensify patrols and maintain order, especially on sidewalks used by pedestrians.

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