In recent years, Hanoi’s suburban districts such as Dong Anh, Gia Lam, Hoai Duc, Thanh Tri, and Dan Phuong have seen marked improvements in infrastructure and socioeconomic conditions. Once purely agricultural areas, these districts are now steadily approaching urban criteria, thanks to synchronised investment in transport and social infrastructure.
Particularly in Dong Anh district, key roads such as Vo Nguyen Giap, Route 23B, and links to industrial and urban zones have been upgraded, enhancing connectivity with the capitali’s urban core and surrounding areas. As a result, Dong Anh became one of the first districts to complete the national new-style rural area building programme (in 2016) and is on track to meet advanced rural standards by 2025.
On May 19, Hanoi broke ground on Tu Lien Bridge, a modern cable-stayed bridge connecting Tay Ho district with Dong Anh across the Red River. With a total investment nearing 20 trillion VND (768.3 million USD), the bridge is expected to be completed in 2028, significantly reducing travel times and boosting the economic potential of Hanoi’s northern suburban belt.
Similarly, Hoai Duc district has accelerated public investment in infrastructure since 2021. Key projects such as Ring Road 3.5, LK1, LK8, DH02, and Lai Yen–Van Canh roads have been implemented. The district is also preparing for major upgrades to National Highway 32 and LK5, while proposing further projects to complete its main traffic framework. Hoai Duc is simultaneously developing green spaces, schools, cultural and sports facilities, and healthcare centres, aiming to both improve rural quality of life and meet urban district standards.
According to the Hanoi Office for the Coordination of the New-Style Rural Area Development Programme, from 2010 to 2024, Hanoi mobilised over 183 trillion VND for rural development. In the 2021–2024 period alone, more than 86.8 trillion VND was invested. As a result, all 17 districts and Son Tay township have achieved new-style rural area status. Notably, five districts—Dong Anh, Thanh Tri, Gia Lam, Hoai Duc, and Thanh Oai—have been recognised for meeting advanced rural area standards.
Infrastructure investment has also played a key role in attracting investment and shifting local economic structures. In Gia Lam district, large-scale urban areas such as Vinhomes Ocean Park, Dang Xa, and Trau Quy have emerged, helping reshape the local population and economy. Industrial clusters like Phu Thi, Bat Trang, and Duong Xa have developed rapidly, creating thousands of jobs with incomes higher than traditional farming’s.
In Dan Phuong, where 100% of communes have achieved model rural status, infrastructure continues to evolve toward an urban profile. Early 2025 saw the launch of Tay Thang Long Road segment from Ring Road 3.5 to Dan Hoai Canal. Smart lighting systems, paved roads, flower-lined streets, and community spaces have been widely implemented.
“Though still rural, we benefit from comprehensive infrastructure. Residents truly feel their quality of life improving each day,” said Nguyen Manh Ha, Chairman of the Hong Ha communal People’s Committee.
In Phuc Tho district, efforts to promote a civilised lifestyle are being integrated with urban development. Since late 2024, the district has encouraged residents to build homes in a more orderly manner, requiring permits and commitments to protect the environment and community harmony. According to Chairman Nguyen Dinh Son, this is a key step in forming the behavioural foundation necessary for modern urban living.
Hanoi continues to direct districts to integrate rural development closely with future urban planning. This ensures that development standards are applied systematically and effectively.
The city also prioritises investment in inter-regional transportation, ring roads, water and sanitation systems, and waste treatment facilities. At the same time, it encourages localities to attract businesses and cooperatives to participate in infrastructure and service development. Through coordinated investment and planning, the gap between rural and urban areas is narrowing, allowing suburban residents to enjoy modern living conditions while preserving the traditional values of Hanoi’s rural identity./.
(VNA)
