Ninh Binh among eight provinces expected to become centrally-run cities

The goal of the planning scheme is to speed up the rate and improve the quality of urbanization; develop, arrange and distribute the urban and rural system in an effective and comprehensive manner with modern and synchronous infrastructure and a healthy environment that respond effectively to sea level rise and climate change and have emission reduction.

It aims to develop a network of urban areas and turns them into centres of politics, administration, economy, culture, science, technology and transport and investment attraction.

The planning scheme also targets to build at least five international-level cities that play the role of connecting with regional and international networks.

The urbanization rate is projected to reach over 50% and 70% by 2030 and 2050, respectively. The number of urban areas nationwide is set to reach 1,000-1,200, contributing some 85% of the national GDP.

There are currently five centrally-run cities in Vietnam, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hai Phong, Da Nang and Can Tho.

In addition to the current centrally-run cities, eight provinces are oriented to become centrally-run cities, including Thua Thien-Hue, Khanh Hoa, Bac Ninh, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Quang Ninh, Ninh Binh, Hai Duong and Binh Duong.

Translated by Duc Thang