On the morning of September 29th, during the 4th Specialized Session of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Council, the council approved the conversion of over 2,000 square meters of natural protective forest in Residential Area No. 3 (Con Dao Special Zone) for Phase 2 of the Infrastructure Development Project in Con Dao District’s central area.
Overview of the 4th Specialized Session of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Council on September 29th. Photo: Ngo Tung
The project, led by the Con Dao Special Zone People’s Committee, spans 2022–2027 and includes nine roads totaling over 3.2 kilometers. Supporting infrastructure comprises stormwater drainage, wastewater systems, water supply, street lighting, greenery, utility trenches, and traffic safety measures.
According to the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, converting over 2,000 square meters of natural protective forest is essential, legal, and feasible. It ensures the continuity of this critical infrastructure project, fostering Con Dao’s sustainable growth as a premier regional tourism and service hub.
Delegates vote to approve the conversion of over 2,000 square meters of natural protective forest in Con Dao for the central infrastructure project. Photo: Ngo Tung
The project aims to enhance the transportation network, lay the foundation for a new residential area northwest of Quang Trung Lake, and develop the urban landscape in alignment with Con Dao’s 2045 Master Plan.
Upon completion, the project will elevate residents’ quality of life, attract investment, boost tourism, meet national defense and security needs, and preserve the environment and historical sites.
Additionally, the project aligns with key plans: the National Forestry Plan 2021–2030, Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province’s 2030 Plan, Con Dao’s 2045 Master Plan, the 1/2000-scale Con Son Central Area Plan, and Con Dao’s Land Use Plan by 2030.
A scenic view of Con Dao. Photo: Pham Nguyen
The proposed forest conversion falls within the unexecuted protective forestland conversion quota per approved land use plans. Con Dao boasts a high forest cover (over 79.01%, or 5,956 hectares of natural forest), while land for urban and infrastructure development remains limited.
Legally, the project complies with the 2017 Forestry Law, 2024 Land Law, Decree 156/2018, Decree 91/2024, and Prime Minister-approved planning decisions. The project dossier includes an environmental protection plan, forest status map, project proposal, and commitment to fund replacement forest planting.
