Nguyen Hue will become Ho Chi Minh City’s first walking-only street on April 20 to mark Reunification Day (April 30), the city's Party chief has said.



Le Thanh Hai, secretary of the municipal Party Unit, inspecting some major construction works Saturday, said with reference to the work needed before Nguyen Hue can become a pedestrians-only street: “The contractors have been told to follow the deadline and ensure quality.”



He urged the city administration to inform the public about the plan.



Authorities plan to completely ban trucks on the street and all motor vehicles between 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays once it becomes walking only.



Trucks can get permission in individual cases to use the road, according to the transport department.



The plan to upgrade the street is expected to cost VND430 billion (US$20 million) and will turn the 670-meter downtown street into a cultural hub with 3D art events and water fountains at night.



The street runs from the People’s Committee office to Bach Dang Wharf on the Sai Gon River.