The southern province of Long An began to keep a close eye on property development in areas adjacent to HCM City.

Nguyen Van Hung, director of the province’s Department of Construction, said his department is scrutinising projects in districts next to the city such as Duc Hoa, Ben Luc, Can Giuoc and others.

It has uncovered violations at two major developments, Thang Loi Riverside Market in Can Duoc District and Golden River Residence in Duc Hoa District.

Though the former has yet to get a licence, the project’s developer has already installed drainage pipes at Thang Loi Riverside Market to prevent waterlogging.

Authorities have ordered the company to stop the construction.

Cat Tuong Sai Gon Company was penalised for using the unregistered name of Golden River Residence for marketing purpose. Its official name is indeed Hiep Hoa flood-hit residential area.

Hung said his department would send a final report to the provincial People’s Committee and instruct relevant authorities to step up scrutiny and penalise violations.

“The department will keep track on investors of their shortcomings and punish if they commit any violation in accordance with the law,” Hung added.

Last December the department also carried out inspections on other projects.

Most of them, like the Hien Vinh residential area in Duc Hoa District’s Duc Hoa Dong Commune and Tran Anh Riverside in Ben Luc District, had begun marketing online even before completing the administrative requirements.

The department will soon announce penalties. — VNS