A little portion of the Truc Bach Lake beachfront has lately been transformed into a vibrantly colored promenade with photo-ready backdrops, once a sluggish flashpoint of pollution in Hanoi.

The makeover took place on a 200-meter stretch between the Ngu Xa 1 and Ngu Xa 2 Bridges, both of which span a small canal to connect the Truc Bach lakeshore with an islet on the lake. 

According to resident Nguyen Van Trung, this area was once strewn with trash which emanated strong odors that repelled passers-by. 

Now, it has been given a new lease on life, with both canal banks paved with stone tilings, decorated with colorful lanterns, and touched up with murals promoting environmental awareness.

Houses are painted in vibrant colors at the glammed-up promenade of Truc Bach Lake, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi. Photo: Nguyen Hien / Tuoi Tre

Two rows of houses with 28 units were also repainted into successive blocks of bright colors capable of drawing attention from passing commuters. 

The makeover is part of an urban renovation project sponsored by the People’s Committee of Truc Bach Ward in celebration of 40 years of the ward authority and 60 years of the local Ba Dinh District. 

As it was completed during the social distancing mandate for non-essential locations introduced in Hanoi on May 25 to curb the recent surge in coronavirus cases in the locale, the new promenade has welcomed few visitors. 

However, local authorities expect the area to become Hanoi’s next gathering spot for tourists and locals alike. 

It is also seen to contribute to a bigger movement to upscale living quality for residents in the capital city.

A mural depicting old Hanoi scenery is painted on Truc Bach Lake, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi. Photo: Nguyen Hien / Tuoi Tre

Local children are seen at the glammed-up promenade of Truc Bach Lake, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi. Photo: Nguyen Hien / Tuoi Tre

Flower at the glammed-up promenade of Truc Bach Lake, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi. Photo: Nguyen Hien / Tuoi Tre

Colorful lanterns at the glammed-up promenade of Truc Bach Lake, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi. Photo: Nguyen Hien / Tuoi Tre

Murals depicting old Hanoi scenery are painted at Truc Bach Lake, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi. Photo: Nguyen Hien / Tuoi Tre

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