Hanoi pushes ahead with massive urban renewal, leaving hundreds of thousands facing eviction

(CNA, Hanoi, May 31) Hanoi is transforming its infrastructure at an unprecedented speed and scale. While most support the city's modernization, the process has sparked heated debate as hundreds of thousands of residents face forced evictions, citing a lack of communication and compensation far below market value. Affected residents say they are angry but afraid to speak out. In recent months, Hanoi has felt like a massive construction site, with projects ranging from flood prevention to road expansion and high-rise developments. Under the "Centennial Capital Master Plan," the city is pushing for the largest urban renewal in its history, including the reconstruction of old apartment blocks and the construction of new bridges and metro lines. By 2030, the city aims to demolish 20,000 old residential units to make way for high-rises. While the government hopes rapid economic growth will lead Vietnam to developed status, the aggressive execution has caused anxiety. Reports suggest hundreds of thousands could face relocation to accommodate a population doubling by 2045. One resident told AFP that he received compensation worth only a third of his property's market value, calling himself a "victim" of the renewal. With over $2.5 trillion in investment expected over the next 20 years, balancing development with cultural preservation and resident welfare remains a major challenge.