Phuoc Hoa reservoir area. (Photo: VNA)

Phuoc Hoa irrigation reservoir in southern Dong Nai province, already a critical water regulator and freshwater source for the southeast region, covers more than 2,000 ha and is emerging as a prime candidate for large-scale tourism and ecological development, though it remains largely untapped.

Economists pointed out that the Be River encircles the site, creating the 2,077-hectare Phuoc Hoa lake, a national-level reservoir that feeds Dau Tieng lake and Dong Nai river system. Its topography and water resources make it ideal for an integrated eco-hub featuring lakeside residential projects, golf-integrated urban zones, resort complexes and nature parks, all designed to deliver a green urban space in harmony with nature.

Nguyen Hong Thai, Chairman of Nha Bich communal People’s Committee, said the reservoir holds enormous socio-economic potential thanks to its vast water surface, striking scenery, year-round cool climate and proximity to Gia Nghia–Chon Thanh and Ho Chi Minh City-Thu Dau Mot-Chon Thanh expressways. These connections, he said, give local authorities a prime opportunity to lure investors and unlock the site’s full value.

He added that the commune has submitted proposals to Dong Nai province to revise land use master plans and rezone the former Chon Thanh area. The updated planning incorporates new strategic transport links that build on existing roads from the former Binh Duong province, including the Bau Bang and Bac Tan Uyen routes, to catalyse tourism and urban growth around the reservoir.

Thanks to its geographic proximity to Ho Chi Minh City and its position between the fast-expanding industrial-urban hubs of Chon Thanh and Dong Xoai, Nha Bich is poised to become northern Dong Nai’s next growth node.

With adjusted zoning and targeted infrastructure tying northern Phuoc Thanh directly to Ho Chi Minh City, Phuoc Hoa is expected to morph into a modern eco-urban and resort destination, boosting regional investment inflows and fostering links between Dong Nai, Ho Chi Minh City and Cambodia.