Nguyen Manh Quyen, Deputy Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee, on July 2 inspected the implementation of the new two-tier local government model in Linh Nam and Hong Ha wards.

He also serves as Head of Task Force No. 4, which oversees the restructuring of commune-level administrative units in the city.

According to Do Thanh Tung, Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of the Linh Nam Ward People's Council, the newly established Linh Nam Ward now covers an area of 10.86km2 with a population of 20,706.

It was formed by merging the former wards of Linh Nam, Tran Phu, and Yen So (Hoang Mai District), along with part of the area and population of Thanh Luong Ward (Hai Ba Trung District).

The main office of the Party Committee, People's Council, and People's Committee is located at the former Linh Nam Ward headquarters on Linh Nam Street. The Vietnam Fatherland Front office is based at the former Tran Phu Ward headquarters.

During the pilot operation from June 20 to 26, Linh Nam Ward processed 946 administrative applications, with 100% completed ahead of schedule.

On July 1, the first official day of the two-tier government model, the ward received 144 applications and again delivered all results ahead of schedule.

Despite early success, Linh Nam Ward reported several difficulties and requested the city to direct the Department of Home Affairs to provide guidance on reorganizing residential groups.

The ward proposed financial support to ensure a balanced budget and stable operations.

Local authorities also asked the Public Service Center to promptly fix software issues and improve integration with city departments to ensure timely and accurate processing of public services.

Deputy Chairman Nguyen Manh Quyen acknowledged the ward's efforts in preparing for this transition and urged local officials to maintain their momentum.

He emphasized the need to focus on the upcoming Party Congress and finalize related documents.

Quyen encouraged the ward to leverage its geographical advantages and align development strategies with surrounding southern wards.

For areas inside the Red River dike, the Deputy Chairman suggested focusing on urban development and beautification, planning for commercial centers, supermarkets, and markets  to reflect the ward's status as an urban hub.

He called for careful attention to every street and public space under the principle of "making steady progress step by step."

For areas outside the dike, the ward should align its development with the overall planning for both riverbanks, with a focus on sustainability, greenery, cleanliness, and visual appeal.

Deputy Chairman Quyen also pointed out the need to upgrade infrastructure, working equipment, and internet connections.

He stressed continued training for officials to ensure clear roles and responsibilities and to promote a professional office culture.

Above all, he said, administrative procedures for residents and businesses must be handled smoothly and efficiently.

Regarding the ward's recommendations, Quyen asked Task Force No. 4 to compile and evaluate proposals to support the two-tier governance model.

On the same day, Deputy Chairman Quyen visited Hong Ha Ward.

According to Chairman Le Hong Thang, Hong Ha was established by merging 12 wards from five districts. It now spans 15.1km2 and has a population of approximately 124,000.

As the entire ward lies outside the Red River dike, it faces major challenges in building technical and social infrastructure.

Following central and city directives, Hong Ha prepared thoroughly for the launch of the new model.

Since July 1, the ward has handled 185 public service requests, including 30 consultations and 155 submitted applications.

However, the ward has faced technical issues, including signal disruptions and software overload.

Connectivity between the iHanoi platform and the National Public Service Portal has also been inconsistent, affecting information processing.

In addition, Hong Ha is struggling with limited facilities and outdated equipment.

Many government offices are cramped, deteriorated, and scattered across multiple locations, making it difficult for staff to work effectively.

Deputy Chairman Quyen praised the ward's initial efforts in setting up the new administrative structure but noted that Hong Ha faces serious challenges.

He urged the ward to quickly prepare for its Party Congress and define a clear economic and social development strategy for the next five years.

The deputy mayor suggested the ward focus on high-quality agriculture, eco-tourism, and services, making use of the riverside land to build Hong Ha into an eco-park and attractive destination in the capital.

He also advised reviewing agricultural production in the riverside areas and aligning crop patterns with tourism to enhance value.

The ward was also encouraged to work with the city on proposals to develop transportation and landscapes along the Red River, preserving natural elements while using land wisely to build recreational and service facilities, generating sustainable revenue.

Quyen stressed that improving administrative services for residents and businesses must remain the ward's top priority.

All obstacles must be promptly reported so the city can respond accordingly, and the ward's performance in this area will serve as a measure of its administrative capacity and credibility, he said.

The deputy mayor reaffirmed that due to its unique position, Hong Ha will continue to receive special attention from the city.

He called on local leaders to promote public awareness, ensure security and order, build public consensus, and contribute to the capital's overall development.