River water is clearer, no more strong odor
According to Mr. Truong Quoc Bao, Head of the Yen Xa Wastewater Treatment Project Management Board (under the Hanoi Infrastructure and Agricultural Construction Investment Project Management Board), as of August 15, all 245 wastewater discharge gates along the To Lich River have been thoroughly collected and transferred to the Yen Xa Wastewater Treatment Plant.
The plant currently processes about 200,000230,000 m3/day and night, enough to solve the entire amount of wastewater along the river.
When wastewater no longer flows directly into the river, this is a prerequisite to improve the quality of water and the landscape of To Lich River.
Currently, the return of green water flow on the To Lich River is surprising many people in the capital. The signs of revival of the river that has been considered a "dead river" for many years have become a testament to the strong changes from Hanoi's environmental infrastructure projects.
Initial results have clearly shown clearer water surfaces, stable flows and the strong stench that has haunted people for decades has basically disappeared.
Ms. Dang Thi Huyen (63 years old, a resident living next to To Lich River, on Hoang Quoc Viet Street) shared: "I have lived here for decades, never thinking that there would be a day when I would go to the riverbank without getting my nose blocked. This afternoon, I walk along the river, the wind is cool, it feels like returning to my childhood when To Lich is still fresh".
Mr. Hoang Van Nam (34 years old, office worker in Lang ward) was excited: "Every morning I run on Lang street, before I only dared to wear a mask because of the unpleasant smell. Now the water is cleaner, seeing the cool green flow, the spirit is much more comfortable".
Enhancing the landscape, preparing to build a park along the river
Along with wastewater treatment, Hanoi has renovated 19 locations along both banks from Cau Giay to Hoa Cac Bridge. The railing system, embankment and trees have been renovated and handed over for use.
In particular, on October 10, the city will start a project to build a park on both sides of the To Lich River. This is expected to turn the river into a modern public space, both a landscape highlight and a place for people to live and play.
Many people expressed that if the park is properly invested, To Lich River will no longer be a destination of Hanoi but will gradually become a tourist and cultural destination and will gradually become a livable area for people.
Previously, in March 2025, the Office of the Hanoi People's Committee announced the conclusion of Vice Chairman of the City People's Committee Duong Duc Tuan on the To Lich River renovation plan proposed by a private enterprise. The city requires careful study of the embankment plan, ensuring both the expansion of the water surface and keeping land funds for public service works.
The Department of Finance is also assigned to study the mechanism for implementing projects under the BT (build - transfer) form, to ensure long-term investment efficiency and feasibility.
Not only improving water quality, the revival of To Lich River also has spiritual significance for the people of the capital. Once a cultural memory and attached to urban life, the river is now gradually returning to its close, fresh image.
drastic steps in collecting and treating wastewater, along with plans to improve the landscape and build riverside parks, show that Hanoi is gradually implementing its commitment to restore vitality to the To Lich River.
