Located on the central route of Hoa Binh city, the former headquarters of the State Bank of Vietnam, Hoa Binh province branch, used to be a majestic architectural structure, contributing to the modern appearance of the area. However, after many years of abandonment, the place has become degraded and shabby.
In early January 2025, when present here, according to the reporter's records, from a panoramic view, the old building appeared with dull yellow walls, balconies and railings with cracks. The glass windows were covered with dust, many window frames were damaged, peeling paint. The space around the headquarters exuded a desolate, cold look.
In front of the building, the yard and walkways are overrun with weeds, bushes and vines growing uncontrollably. The outdoor lighting system is old, some bulbs are broken or rusted.
Inside the compound, a dusty Toyota Hilux pickup truck sits quietly in the corner of the garage, a clear testament to its long-term neglect. Old, faded and damaged signs lie scattered about, unattended.
The courtyard area that used to be a communal space is now just an empty space, with the floor covered in dust and cobwebs.
The iron sliding door system on the ground floor was rusty, many doors were warped and could no longer be opened or closed. The walls were peeling, revealing long cracks, a sign of serious deterioration. The high ceiling with large glass windows was covered with dirt, the light coming through was weak, making the space even more gloomy.
The indoor sports area with tennis court appeared cold and deserted. The benches were empty and dusty, showing no sign of any activity. The upstairs corridors were quiet, the offices were locked or slightly open, revealing dark and stale spaces.
Sharing with reporters, Ms. Nguyen Hoang Nga, a resident living near this area, said: "This headquarters has been abandoned since the beginning of 2023, after the State Bank of Vietnam, Hoa Binh Province branch, moved to a new headquarters in the inter-agency area near Hoa Binh Square."
According to Ms. Nga, the abandonment of a large headquarters not only affects the urban beauty but also poses a potential safety risk. Long-abandoned buildings can become a shelter for bad guys or cause environmental problems.
"We really hope the province has a plan for this project. Because it is located right at the foot of the Provincial Party Committee and Provincial People's Committee headquarters, it spoils the beauty, and it is a pity to waste a project like this," said Ms. Nga.
Speaking to reporters, Mr. Le Cao Cuong - Deputy Director of the State Bank of Vietnam, Hoa Binh Province Branch, said that the current headquarters of the State Bank of Vietnam, Hoa Binh Province Branch, is on Chi Lang Street, about 1 km away from the old headquarters.
According to Mr. Cuong, the unit has completed the handover procedures to the Provincial People's Committee, however, Hoa Binh province has not yet arranged a receiving unit.
According to the reporter's investigation, the People's Committee of Hoa Binh province has planned to hand over the old headquarters of the State Bank of Vietnam, Hoa Binh branch, to a state agency in the province for use and exploitation. However, the total number of employees and the purpose of use of this agency are not suitable for the function of the above building, so the handover cannot be carried out yet.
