Hanoi is planning to add more than 4,000 hectares from neighboring Phu Tho province. The move is interesting because it could reshape the city’s green space, tourism and jobs.

The proposal would bring 4,006.38 hectares under Hanoi’s jurisdiction, including 2,529.38 hectares inside Ba Vi National Park and 1,477 hectares of surrounding buffer zones. These lands lie in Thinh Minh and Luong Son communes, Ky Son ward, and the Hanoi communes of Ba Vi and Yen Xuan.

Dr. Dao Ngoc Nghiem and Professor Dang Hung Vo say the expansion could strengthen conservation of Ba Vi National Park while opening new tourism and regional development opportunities. They note that the area’s natural resources are closely linked to the wider Ba Vi landscape.

Both experts stress that any successful expansion must have clearly defined objectives, a heritage value assessment, and substantial infrastructure investment, especially in transport. Improving accessibility is seen as the first priority for attracting tourists.

The management of Ba Vi National Park was transferred to Hanoi’s People’s Committee, which could allow better infrastructure and ecotourism development while keeping conservation requirements. This shift may give Hanoi greater development resources and create economic opportunities for residents through tourism‑related businesses.

What we can learn is that expanding city boundaries can bring greener space and jobs, but only if planning balances conservation, heritage, and transport needs. Clear goals and careful assessment are essential for sustainable growth.