Aerial view of the Turtle Lake in HCMC, May 2020. (Photo: VnExpress/Huu Khoa)

Pham Thanh Kien, Party Secretary of District 3, said the idea was fueled by the popular opinion that, since the Turtle Lake is located near the Notre-Dame Cathedral, another icon, the area should be turned into a walking street worthy of its status.

"Turtle Lake would be turned into a high-quality walking street, unlike in other, mere business-oriented areas," he said Thursday.

Nguyen Thuong Hien, two km from the lake, is known for its snack and street food vendors, mentioned countless times in travel magazines and tourism forums, he said.

District 3 authorities expect to meet with relevant ministries and units next week regarding the proposal, before requesting support from the municipal People’s Committee. 

HCMC is opening the two walking streets Nguyen Hue and Bui Vien during the weekend.