Ho Chi Minh City, March 5 -- Authorities in Ho Chi Minh City are imposing stricter controls on major events in the downtown after rising complaints about disruptions to daily life.

In recent years, the downtown area, particularly Saigon and Ben Thanh wards, has seen extensive upgrades designed to create a modern, livable, and civilised urban space. It has become a frequent venue for high-profile political, diplomatic, cultural, economic, and sporting gatherings.

The increasing number of such events, often without sufficient coordinated planning, has resulted in severe traffic jams, noise and light pollution, and growing discontent among residents and visitors. In response, the municipal People's Committee has issued a directive to enhan...