HCMC – HCMC authorities are considering removing the Dien Bien Phu roundabout to ease chronic traffic congestion at a major gateway to the city center.
The intersection links Dien Bien Phu, Nguyen Binh Khiem and Hoang Sa streets, connecting eastern areas with the downtown. Built more than 20 years ago, the roundabout features a 16-meter clock tower and operates without traffic lights, with vehicles circulating to turn or change direction.
Congestion has worsened in recent years as vehicular traffic has become heavier, particularly during peak hours. Heavy traffic from the Hang Xanh overpass along Dien Bien Phu Street, especially vehicles turning left toward Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, often conflict with other directions, creating mixed and difficult-to-control traffic conditions.
The city’s authorities are reviewing traffic reorganization options at the junction, including dismantling the roundabout. Other proposals include reducing its diameter to expand road space and installing directional signage to guide vehicles toward alternative central routes such as Nguyen Thi Minh Khai and Le Duan streets.
Residents expressed mixed views. Quoc Quan, who works at a university on Dien Bien Phu Street, said he uses the roundabout daily to turn around on his way to work. “If it is removed, traffic may move more smoothly because the road space will be wider,” he said, adding that the clock tower has long served as a familiar marker signaling proximity to the city center. “If it is dismantled, it would be a pity.”
Another resident, Thu Trang, said the roundabout contributes to the area’s landscape but may no longer suit current traffic conditions. “The roundabout with the clock tower creates a highlight for the area, but traffic is very heavy during peak hours, making it difficult to pass,” she said. “If it remains, it could continue to obstruct traffic, so a more suitable solution may be needed.”
The Department of Construction, in coordination with the HCMC Traffic Police Division, has introduced temporary measures, including opening an additional turning direction at the Nguyen Cuu Van intersection to reduce traffic pressure from the Hang Xanh overpass.
However, congestion during peak hours has not improved significantly, according to on-site observations.
