EXPLORING THE RED RIVER – NATURE AMIDST THE HECTIC PACE OF HANOI CITY
In May 2024, Center for Nature Conservation and Development (CCD) collaborated with ECUE Consulting and Services Co., ltd and “For a Livable Hanoi” network to organize a unique excursion on alluvial plains and islets of the Red River under the theme “Exploring alluvial plains and islets during the urbanization at the Red River.” This activity is part of the research collaboration between CCD and its partners, serving as a basis for the development of the project “Transforming alluvial plains and islets of the Red River into a multi-functional cultural park” for Hanoi city.
Picture 1: Alluvial plains and islets within Tay Ho, Long Bien, and Ba Dinh districts
Picture 2: Floating neighborhoods are a part of alluvial plains and islets of the Red river in Hanoi city
©CCD/2024
The excursion led people to explore the formation of alluvial plains and islets as well as its natural ecosystems, agricultural activities, and communities living in the area. While enjoying nature, participants had a chance to discover the diverse biological values, including beautiful bird species, and people’s livelihoods, especially vegetable farming being the main agriculture activity in the alluvial plains and islets. The excursion was either a tourism activity or the public awareness raising program of the natural, historical and cultural values in alluvial plains and islets, in regard to the impacts of urbanization. Furthermore, the exploration of alluvial plains and islets promoted planning initiatives, including the restoration of natural ecosystems in the area, ultimately transforming it into a park for nature experiences, sports, and cultural activities, located at the heart of Hanoi.
Picture 3: Contemplating the nature ecosystem and communities in the alluvial plains and islets from the Long Bien bridge
Picture 4: Visit Phao hamlet – an impoverished neighborhood in a alluvial plain of the Red river
Picture 5: Exploring nature at the Red river
©CCD/2024
In the upcoming time, CCD will continue to implement experiential programs to raise the public awareness and promote people’s participation in protecting alluvial plains and islets Furthermore, CCD, along with the “For a Livable Hanoi” network, will promote planning initiatives to transform and renovate the lake areas into a system of natural cultural parks in Hanoi, aiming to protect the original ecosystems and wild bird species there. In addition, CCD and its partners will focus on promoting sustainable agricultural models that harmonize with nature on alluvial plains and islets of the Red river in Hanoi. These parks will serve the public, bringing meaningful experiences and learning and adding more green spaces to make Hanoi a more livable city.