Article 3: Developing a Smart City in Ho Chi Minh City: The Journey Towards the Vision of 2050

The Smart City Vision: Towards Harmony and Efficiency

According to the Master Plan, Ho Chi Minh City is set to become a model smart city in the region, characterized by advanced infrastructure and sustainable development. The vision focuses on leveraging digital technology to optimize urban management, enhance quality of life, and ensure environmental sustainability.

Key components of the smart city initiative include:

- Smart Traffic Management: Automated traffic monitoring systems utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors to reduce congestion and improve safety.

- Online Public Services: Development of integrated digital platforms for citizens to easily access services such as business registration, administrative procedures, and electronic payments.

- Green Planning: Leveraging technology for environmental management, energy conservation, and minimizing ecological impacts on urban ecosystems.

Digital Infrastructure: The Backbone of a Smart City

Digital infrastructure serves as the foundation for Ho Chi Minh City's smart city model. Under the Master Plan, the City will make significant investments in advanced technology systems, including 5G networks, big data centers, and cloud computing platforms.

These infrastructure initiatives will focus on critical sectors:

- Transportation: Real-time monitoring and management applications integrated with public transport systems such as metro lines and smart buses.

- Urban Management: Utilizing geographic information systems (GIS) to monitor and plan urban development, manage land resources, and regulate growth.

- High-Tech Services: Developing technology applications to support startups, foster innovation, and create new business models based on digital technology.

A Smart Community: The Core of Sustainable Development

A smart city cannot thrive solely on technology; it requires active community involvement. The Master Plan emphasizes creating a smart community where residents are equipped with the skills to utilize technology for improving their quality of life and participating in urban governance.

Proposed community initiatives include:

- Digital Education: Training students, workers, and citizens in information technology skills to adapt to the smart city environment.

- Clean Energy Communities: Encouraging residents to produce and use renewable energy, such as installing solar panels in residential areas.

- Open Data Platforms: Providing accessible data platforms that enable citizens to engage with and contribute ideas on urban planning and development issues.

Conclusion

The Ho Chi Minh City Master Plan for 2021–2030, with a vision to 2050, has laid a strong foundation for developing a smart, modern, and sustainable metropolis. However, achieving this ambitious goal requires not only substantial investment in digital infrastructure but also the creation of a smart community and improved urban management capabilities.

This transformation offers opportunities to enhance quality of life and solidify Ho Chi Minh City's position as a regional leader. The City will not only be a place to live, work, and innovate but also a model for other cities seeking to harness technology for sustainable development.

By Phong Le