HCMC Greenlights $620M PPP for Ma Lang, Cho Ga-Gao Urban Renovation

Ho Chi Minh City’s People's Council has formally approved an investment policy for the large-scale redevelopment of the Ma Lang and Cho Ga - Gao urban areas. The projects, structured as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with a Build-Transfer (BT) contract, have a preliminary total investment of over VND16.3 trillion (approximately $620 million) and are slated for implementation between 2026 and 2029.

According to the proposal from the City People's Committee, the initiatives are designed to enhance local living conditions and systematically resolve the challenges of deteriorated and overburdened infrastructure within these long-established city-center residential zones.

Ma Lang Area Redevelopment

The Ma Lang area, located in Cau Ong Lanh Ward, covers approximately 37,740 square meters, bordered by Nguyen Trai, Tran Dinh Xu, and Nguyen Cu Trinh streets. The People's Committee describes it as a high-density zone with aged housing characterized by small floor areas and cramped construction. Many structures have significantly degraded, failing to meet modern standards for technical infrastructure, environmental quality, and urban safety.

The area suffers from severely limited transportation, drainage, lighting, and social infrastructure. A network of narrow alleys restricts access for fire prevention and emergency services, creating significant safety risks. Preliminary assessments show the project will affect roughly 1,070 land and house cases, impacting 1,459 households with nearly 4,700 residents, along with several public facilities like schools and community centers.

Cho Ga - Gao Area Revitalization

The Cho Ga - Gao area, situated in Ben Thanh Ward, spans approximately 4,350 square meters and is bounded by Nguyen Thai Hoc, Vo Van Kiet, Yersin, and Alley 3 Yersin. As a long-established residential and commercial hub, it features high population density and numerous small-scale businesses. Rapid urbanization has highlighted profound inadequacies in its technical and social infrastructure.

The internal road system is narrow, many homes are in disrepair, and access for emergency services is restricted. Current evacuation routes do not meet safety standards, posing high risks in an emergency. Initial surveys indicate the project will impact approximately 252 houses, involving 192 households and 744 residents.