The People's Committee of Hoan Kiem district has decided to suspend the pedestrian streets around Hoan Kiem Lake on the weekend starting from today [August 21] in order to avoid crowded gatherings in strict compliance with the city’s measures on Covid-19 prevention.

The city has suspended pedestrianizing of streets around Hoan Kiem Lake. Photo: Dantri.com.vn

The weekend pedestrianization of the area will be resumed if authorized by the People's Committee of Hanoi, according to the conclusion of Vice Chairman of the city People's Committee Ngo Van Quy, head of the city's Steering Committee for Covid-19 Prevention and Control. 

Earlier this year, the local government decided to suspend the weekend pedestrianization around Hoan Kiem lake as well as public activities in the area from February 7 due to the threat of Covid-19 and to avoid mass gatherings. It was reopened on May 15 after social distancing measures were lifted.

The weekend walking space around Hoan Kiem Lake and surrounding areas in downtown Hanoi has become a brand name, a cultural venue, and a highlight of the capital city, luring thousands of visitors during daytime and at nights in the pre-pandemic period. 

It also contributes to creating a new lifestyle for Hanoi’s people, and promoting the capital city’s image – the City for Peace.

The walking streets normally are open from Friday night to Sunday night, from 7:00pm to 12:00pm in summer and from 6:00pm to 12:00pm in winter.