There are hardly any new playgrounds for children in Hanoi and the old ones are occupied by street vendors and parking lots.

A playground in Trung Phung Ward, Dong Da District

In a packed urban area in Trung Phung Ward, Dong Da District, a dumping area was converted into a playground several years ago. Despite the small and enclosed space, the playground has become a favourite place for the local children. However, it is still used as a parking lot.

Trung Phung Ward has a population of 17,000 but there is a severe shortage of playgrounds. There's hardly any land left while the population is increasing at a fast pace.

The Residential Cluster 38 in Trung Liet Ward has a rare playground with seesaws and swings. Meanwhile in Van Chuong Apartment Building Complex, Dong Da District, there's a large playground but it is used as a dumping site, and parking place. The monkey bars are used as the clothesline by the locals.

Another playground in Van Chuong Ward is used as a gathering place of street vendors and a playground in Thanh Cong Apartment Complex was turned into a market.

Hanoi has been flooded with apartment projects but no parks or playgrounds. The authorities have been urged to come up with effective plans to increase green spaces and playgrounds in the city for years.