Why Ho Chi Minh City's upscale Thao Dien floods every time it rains

Thao Dien, one of Ho Chi Minh City's most exclusive neighborhoods, continues to grapple with chronic flooding during heavy rains and high tides despite its soaring property values and rapid development.

According to city data, Thao Dien is one of 24 flood-prone hotspots in Thu Duc City.

Although known for its luxury villas, expat-friendly amenities, and international schools, the ward regularly sees streets submerged after downpours.

On Wednesday afternoon, a sudden rainstorm inundated several key roads in Thao Dien, including Quoc Huong, Nguyen Van Huong, and Thao Dien Streets.

Floodwaters in some spots reached up to 30 centimeters, with the deepest point recorded outside the Ho Chi Minh City University of Culture.

Thu Duc City officials say the issue is largely structural.

Much of Thao Dien sits on low-lying terrain, and its drainage infrastructure is aging and inadequate.

Several roads are located below the high-tide level, preventing stormwater from draining effectively when tides rise.

Quoc Huong Street typically floods along a 262-meter stretch, while Nguyen Van Huong Street is inundated over 200 meters, and Thao Dien Street floods for about 270 meters.

City engineers have found that drainage outlets in these areas are often blocked, damaged, or entirely defunct.

The combination of intense rainfall and limited drainage capacity has turned flooding into a routine frustration for residents.

It typically takes one to two hours for water to fully recede after storms.

While short-term fixes such as clearing clogged drains and running pumping stations are being ramped up, officials admit these efforts are only stopgaps.

Longer-term solutions are in the works.

The city has approved major drainage upgrades for Thao Dien and its main roads as part of its 2021-25 public investment plan.

Additional projects include a new embankment along the Saigon River and the second phase of the Nhieu LocThi Nghe canal improvement initiative.

For now, though, even the citys most high-end addresses remain vulnerable when the skies open up.

Bao Anh - Chau Tuan / Tuoi Tre News

(2025/06/05-18:04)