Work begins on the second phase of a water drainage project for Tham Lương–Bến Cát–Rạch Nước Lên Canal in HCM City in February, 2023. — VNA/VNS Photo Tiến Lực

HCM CITY — Construction of the second phase of a project on water drainage and environmental improvement of the polluted Tham Lương-Bến Cát Rạch Nước Lên Canal in HCM City is set to be completed on April 30 next year, earlier than scheduled.

After nearly seven years since the first phase was completed, construction on the second phase of the project began in February last year.

The canal has a total length of 31.5km and spreads through the seven districts of Bình Tân, Tân Phú, Tân Bình, Gò Vấp, Bình Chánh, Bình Thạnh and 12.

Covering about 14,900ha of land, the project aims to improve the quality of the environment and drainage systems, expand waterway traffic, improve the quality of life for local residents and give a facelift to areas on the banks of the canal.

It also includes 12 boat stations, three bridges and intersections, and new lights and trees on the roads along the canal.

Total investment of the project is estimated at VNĐ8.2 trillion (US$343 million), including VNĐ4 trillion ($167 million) from the central budget and the remaining from the city budget.

Previously, the project was expected to be completed by the end of 2025. 

It is one of the city’s key flood-control and wastewater treatment projects in the period of 2020-45, including works on drainage system improvement and dredging of canals.

It also contributes to the city’s efforts on environmental improvement and urban beautification. — VNS