Hanoi authorities defend tree fell project
Authorities in Hanoi say plans to cut down trees in Hanoi were aimed at removing sick trees or those at risk of falling, and to clear areas designated for urban transport projects.
The municipal Department of Construction was responding to questions from the media about plans to cut down about 6,700 trees in Hanoi, a move that has attracted widespread public outcry.
The department said the city had a long-term plan for trees, parks, flower gardens and lakes through to 2030. New trees, provided by sponsors, would replace those removed.
“From November 2014 through early 2015 130 trees were relocated, while 335 dying, old and dangerous trees were chopped down, and 489 trees were replaced,” the department said.
Trees have so far been chopped down in eight streets -- Kim Ma, Nguyen Thai Hoc, Pho Hue, Hang Bai, Hoang Van Thu, O Cho Dua and Hoang Cau.
The department denied that strong trees were being felled, and maintained that the overall policy was to preserved and carefully care for the city's trees.
Logs from trees cut down were being held for sale by auction, with revenue going to the state budget.
New trees were being supplied on a sponsorship basis by several individuals and enterprises, including Vincom, VP Bank, Binh Minh Technology Trading JSC, Ha Thanh Construction Investment and Consultancy JSC, Green Tree Park Company, and the Hanoi police.
All newly planted trees on Nguyen Chi Thanh Street are manglietia conifer, which is listed in Vietnam’s Red Book.