The Xa La Sports Stadium facility located in Ha Dong district, Hanoi, is currently facing a serious management crisis. Instead of serving as a public space for fitness activities, this strategic land has transformed into an unorganized informal commercial area, sparking public concern over risks to life and property safety.
Field investigations show that dozens of small illegal stalls selling basic necessities and food have been set up along the edge of the field. This condition is exacerbated by the presence of a large-scale auto repair shop piling up spare parts and engines in open areas, spilling over onto the roadway. These activities drastically narrow the space available for residents to exercise.
Fatal risks are evident in haphazardly installed electrical systems. Many wires can be seen dangling near piles of flammable materials, such as styrofoam boxes. The situation is increasingly critical given the minimal availability of proper fire extinguishers, with some existing units found to be rusted and non-functional.
A number of local residents expressed anxiety about the condition, particularly because this makeshift market has been operating for years without adequate supervision. They fear that in the event of an electrical short circuit, fire will spread rapidly given the dense residential area surrounding the stadium.
Responding to this spotlight, stadium management claimed that using the land for commercial activities is a temporary measure while awaiting conversion plans from relevant authorities. Although promising safety inspections, the statement provides no concrete assurance to residents regarding when the public area will be restored to its original function as a safe sports hub.
