Since being classified as a first class city in 2009 when its urban infrastructure was still weak and asynchronous, Can Tho has made great efforts to renovate and upgrade the infrastructure to be a civilized and modern city.

Can Tho has invested in many sectors to enhance its infrastructure, raising the urbanization ratio to over 65 percent and aiming to hit 70-75 percent by 2020 when the population is projected to reach 1.8-2 million people. Can Tho is developing on the urban core of five inner districts and 5 fifth class cities (townships of suburban districts).

Luu Huu Phuoc Park is now clean and well-equipped.

Financed by the State budget and loans from the World Bank, Can Tho has carried out many projects which have proven efficiency. Some of the programs compatible to the socio-economic development of the city are urban upgrading projects. These projects have contributed to improving and enhancing environmental quality and infrastructure at low-income residential areas.

Cai Khe canal is beautiful after renovation (under Project 1).

Project 1 (the urban upgrading project) is implemented in 35 low-income areas in Ninh Kieu and Binh Thuy districts, benefiting 450,000 households. Over 250 alleys have been upgraded and widened, getting rid of floodwater. So far, the work at the canals of Tham Tuong, Cai Khe, Son and Xang Thoi lake has been finished. Can Tho has also upgraded the sewage systems on Hoa Binh, Ly Tu Trong, Phan Van Tri streets. Meanwhile, the renovation of Luu Huu Phuoc Park creates a highlight for the city's downtown, meeting the demand for entertainment of local people and providing a space for cultural activities and important events.

Project 2 (the urban upgrading project in the Mekong Delta, Can Tho City subproject) includes big projects like Bun Xang lake, Rach Ngong and Rach Sao dykes. Once finished, these works will contribute to improving the landscape in the inner city.

An upgraded alley under Project 2.

Project 3 (the project on Can Tho City development and enhancing urban adaptability) has been implemented since 2016 with the aim of avoiding floodwater, ensuring environmental hygiene and transport connectivity, upgrading urban management capability and climate change adaptability for the city. The project mostly concentrates in the two inner districts of Ninh Kieu and Binh Thuy.

Regarding Project 3, from now until 2021, Can Tho will carry out it in a more general and strategic manner, taking into consideration the protection of important works in the city center which are essential to the development of the whole Mekong Delta.

Anh Khoa (Translated by Quoc Khanh)