VietNamNet Bridge – Several architects have voiced their objections to the Hanoi's Department of Planning and Architecture's (DPA) proposal to place an underground station near Hoan Kiem Lake, saying this will affect the beauty of the location.

Several architects worry that the station will badly affect the scenery.

Duong Duc Tuan, Deputy Head of DPA said three locations had been proposed for the C9 station including the garden in front of Ngoc Son Pagoda, Dinh Tien Hoang Street near Hoan Kiem Lake and a underground location under the old quarter, near Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.

The location on Dinh Tien Hoang Street was chosen after consideration. It was chosen as it would have the least impact on the surrounding areas but also provide convenient access to various cultural and political locations nearby.

However, architect Dao Ngoc Nghiem said Hoan Kiem Lake area is not a suitable location for a underground station.

"This is a green, cultural area. We need to re-consider the plan for placing a underground station here," he said. "The surrounding buildings have old architecture, the station won’t fit in here.

Furthermore, Hoan Kiem Lake area has always been strictly managed. Several constructions that were supposed to be built here have been scrapped because of public opposition."

He further said there were more than three options to build a subway station that ensured the environment around the lake as well as the feasibility of a urban railway network.

An architect said this construction will not only affect the scenery but also pose great danger to the old quarter.

The station would belong to Hanoi’s 11.5km Metro Route 2, with 8.5km underground running beneath the Old Quarter.

Source: DTriNews