Up to 2,143 street trees in Ho Chi Minh City have been impacted by ongoing sidewalk renovation projects, with 90 trees already cut down due to safety concerns, according to the city's Infrastructure Management Center.

The projects, spanning 54 roads across various districts, involve deep excavation and use of heavy machinery that have caused significant damage to many trees. 

Exposed roots, snapped branches, and displaced trunks were among the reported issues, increasing the risk of trees collapsing.

In response, the city has removed 90 trees deemed dangerous.

Many others had their branches pruned to reduce canopy weight and minimize risk.

Despite official guidelines from the municipal administration and the Department of Construction on protecting trees during public works, violations by contractors and investors continue.

Common issues include non-compliance with tree protection measures, leading to severe damage.

Among the most affected roads are Nguyen Van Luong Street in District 6, with 260 damaged trees, and Tran Hung Dao Street in District 5, with 185. 

Overall, 2,143 trees have been affected citywide so far.

Recently, 17 copperpod trees along Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street in District 1 were felled on Monday last week.

Media reports also showed that some tree bases were entirely covered in concrete, leaving roots with no room to breathe or grow -- accelerating decline and increasing risk of collapse.

The Infrastructure Management Center has requested the Department of Transport and Public Works and the Department of Construction to increase inspections and enforce penalties for violations.

With the rainy season approaching, authorities plan to continue inspecting affected areas, replacing heavily damaged trees, and trimming branches to reduce the risk of falling trees during storms.

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