Nearly four decades since the Hoa Binh Hydropower Plant generated electricity to the national grid, Hoa Binh city has taken on a new look — youthful, modern, and full of ambition. From a small town by the Da River, it has grown into the administrative, economic, and cultural centre of Hoa Binh province, striving to establish itself as the driving force behind the development of Vietnam’s northwestern region.

In early 2025, Hoa Binh city was officially recognised as a second-tier urban area, marking a milestone in its persistent and determined journey. From its upgrade from a township in 2006, to the merger with the entire Ky Son district in 2020, and a series of strategic infrastructure projects — such as Hoa Lac - Hoa Binh Expressway, Huu Nghi Bridge, Thong Nhat Bridge, new urban areas, and key roads connecting the city centre with national highways, Hoa Binh has transformed into a dynamic and modern city covering an area of nearly 350 square kilometres and comprising 19 administrative units.

Infrastructure development has led the way, followed by economic growth. The city has recorded an average annual economic growth rate of nearly 12% over the past three years. Pham Anh Quy, Chairman of the Hoa Binh city People’s Committee, said the current per capita income exceeds 80 million VND (over 3,000 USD), 1.5 times higher than the national average. The household poverty rate has dropped to just 1.38%, with almost no makeshift housing left. More than 82% of the workforce has shifted to non-agricultural sectors, clearly shaping an urban economy. From a township once known as the "cradle of electricity", Hoa Binh is now evolving into a smart city, where nearly 50% of administrative procedures have been handled online at Level 4.

Today, Hoa Binh city is confidently moving forward on its path of sustainable development. With a vision to become an eco-friendly, civilised, and modern city rich in national cultural identity, it continues to improve its technical infrastructure, accelerate digital transformation, enhance smart services, and improve the quality of life for its residents.

Do Ba Manh, an octogenarian in Tan Thinh ward who has witnessed countless changes in the riverside city, said amid the fast-paced urban life, old values are still preserved. The Muong culture is included in the curriculum of schools and introduced in museums. The sounds of gongs, along with the Thuong rang and Bo meng singing in traditional festivals still resonate in the heart of the city like threads connecting the past and the present.

On the newly-constructed roads, under the newly-planted trees, and beside the gentle streetlights reflecting on the waters of the Da River, Hoa Binh city is taking calm yet determined and relentless steps forward. The city changes day by day but the belief in the people, the hometown, and a future worthy of its past still remains.