Recently, the Provincial Relics Management Board has been actively advising on the preservation and restoration of the Điện Biên Phủ Battlefield historical site complex. This work includes developing plans for the conservation, restoration, and enhancement of the site’s value; implementing projects to demarcate protected areas, install boundary markers, clear land, and issue land use certificates for relics within the national special site; and drafting scientific documentation to propose additional sites for inclusion in the national special relic designation.

In preparation for the 70th anniversary of the Điện Biên Phủ Victory, the Provincial People’s Committee approved a battlefield restoration project with a total investment of VNĐ20 billion (US$...). This project commenced in January 2023 and was completed on schedule, ensuring that the necessary infrastructure was in place for the anniversary celebrations.

Nguyễn Anh Đạo, head of the Provincial Relics Management Board, stated, “The project’s goal was to refurbish, protect, and prevent deterioration of the site, ensuring that all facilities were ready for the 70th anniversary of the Điện Biên Phủ Victory and other major provincial events.”

“Several key components were constructed, including new ticket booths, electric barriers, and movable fences at D1 Hill, where the Điện Biên Phủ Victory Monument is located. We also re-paved the lobby floor and steps with granite where they had cracked or broken. At A1 Hill, we repaired and re-plastered the damaged sections of the perimeter wall, re-painted the entire wall, installed lighting in the bunker, and refurbished the reliefs and guide signs,” he added.

“At the Him Lam Resistance Centre, we re-paved the monument base with granite, cleaned and repaired the trenches and bunkers, and renovated the introductory monument. Additionally, new mobile restrooms were installed at some sites, and we created new check-in points at these relics to better serve visitors.”

He emphasised that the restoration of the Điện Biên Phủ Battlefield historical site strictly adheres to the regulations set forth by the Construction Law and the Cultural Heritage Law.

The Martyrs' Temple at the Điện Biên Phủ Battlefield complex has benefited from the investment of Him Lam Corporation, which has contributed to greening the area by planting trees and grass lawns, ensuring the site was well-prepared for the 70th anniversary of the Điện Biên Phủ Victory. Currently, the plants and lawns are thriving.

At other historical sites, the management board has mobilised youth union members and partnered with organisations to plant flowers and beautify the landscapes. This includes sites like the Điện Biên Phủ Campaign Headquarters in Mường Phăng, D Hill, and A1 Hill, creating a green, clean, and attractive environment for visitors.

Looking ahead, more preservation and restoration projects will be launched at these historical sites to preserve their integrity while maximising their potential for tourism development.

Đạo added, “The management board is currently working on a project to preserve and restore the Điện Biên Phủ Stronghold Complex and to enhance the greenery at C1, C2 Hills, the Him Lam Resistance Centre, and F Hill. We are collaborating with consulting units to develop the project design, which will be submitted for approval by the relevant authorities.”

This project is expected to be implemented in the first quarter of 2025.

Additionally, the management board continues to collaborate with relevant units to develop a comprehensive plan for the conservation, restoration, and enhancement of the Điện Biên Phủ Battlefield National Special Relic Complex. “We are actively working to complete this plan and will submit it to the Provincial People's Committee, which will then forward it to the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism for review before seeking approval from the Prime Minister in the fourth quarter of 2024. Once approved, this plan will facilitate the preservation and enhancement of the historical sites in the coming years,” he said.