Imagine the stench. That’s how the Thi Nghe Creek used to assault your senses. This waterway has a long and complex story. Today, it’s hard to believe this revitalized canal was once a symbol of urban decay.
The Thi Nghe Creek stretches 9 kilometers. It winds through several districts of Ho Chi Minh City. The creek eventually meets the Saigon River. It plays a vital role in the city’s drainage.
Originally known as Binh Tri River. Over time, it became the Nhieu Loc Thi Nghe Canal. The canal became an integral part of Saigon’s identity. It appeared in literature and music.
But rapid development after 1975 took its toll. The Thi Nghe Creek became heavily polluted. Buildings released waste directly into the water. The canal turned black. A foul odor permeated the area. It became an open sewer. Rotting vegetation worsened the condition.
In 1993, the city launched a cleanup. The city relocated residents living along the canal. They dredged tons of sludge. Proper sanitation was established. Around 7000 houses had to be demolished.
The Thi Nghe Creek’s transformation continued into the 21st century. A World Bank project brought sewers and further dredging. Slums were removed. The banks of the Nhieu Loc Thi Nghe Canal were landscaped. Truong Sa and Hoang Sa streets now run alongside it.
The cleanup crews still face challenges. They remove about 15 tons of water hyacinths daily. The plants are processed. They are then removed from the site.
The Thi Nghe Creek is now teeming with fish. Locals and tourists now enjoy the revitalized space. Boat tours offer a unique perspective of the Nhieu Loc Thi Nghe Canal.
Waste remains a significant issue. Plastic bottles and bags still pollute the canal. Some people still dump trash directly into the water. This affects the water quality and the health of nearby residents.
The city is trying to raise awareness. They are educating the public. Stricter enforcement is needed. Everyone must reduce single-use plastics. They need to dispose of trash properly.
The Nhieu Loc Thi Nghe Canal is indispensable for Ho Chi Minh City. It is a testament to what can be achieved. With collective efforts, it can remain clean and beautiful.