Ho Chi Minh City Slips Into Normalcy, One Step at a Time
After a brutal 4‑month lockdown, the Vietnamese megacity is finally giving a breather. Starting Thursday, September 30, authorities say it’s time to crack open the shopping and work gates. The aim? Wake up the economy and let people enjoy a slice of life again, all while the pesky coronavirus keeps doing its thing.
“All checkpoints?“ – The Big News
At a press conference, Deputy Chairman Le Hoa Binh dropped the bomb: “All checkpoints on the streets will be lifted and no travel permits will be needed after today.” He added a gentle reminder that safety comes first even as we open up.
Why the Urgent Shift?
- Ho Chi Minh accounts for 80 % of Vietnam’s COVID‑19 deaths and half of its 780,000 cases.
- At the pandemic’s peak, deaths jumped from 36 in mid‑May to over 19,098 by last Wednesday.
- Meanwhile, Hanoi’s numbers stayed far lower, a stark contrast to the southern powerhouse.
Industries Re‑open, Jobs Resume
From October 1, the city’s industrial parks, construction sites, malls, barbershops, hotels, and even take‑away restaurants will kick back into action. That means a surge in job opportunities for the million‑plus workforce that’s been on standby.
“We foresee a huge shortage of labour force … when the city reopens,” Binh warned. “There are many chances for the unemployed to find new jobs and start over.”
What The Community Is Saying
Industrial managers have lo said that the ceasefire could push them to look for greener pastures elsewhere if curbs stay too long. Thankfully, the city is ready to lift the holds.
Vaccination Sprint Continues
The authorities are pushing hard to get more people up to speed on COVID vaccination. Workers and people over 50 are at the front of the line. As of now, roughly one‑third of residents are fully vaccinated.
“The more people we get vaccinated, the smoother our reopening will be,” Binh added, underscoring the importance of staying safe while we party.
Bottom Line
Ho Chi Minh City’s big, culture‑rich, and bustling streets are finally starting to my head back. The city’s pumping heart will soon match the beat of a normal day. It’s not just about the economy; it’s about people reclaiming ordinary life, while the planet keeps in the background reminding us to stay vigilant.
