# Hanoi to consult residents on milkwood pine management

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/hanoi-urban-greenery-management
> Updated: 2026-10-19T01:26:57.000Z. Sources: 16. Developments: 3.

As of October 2026, Hanoi authorities are implementing measures to manage the density of milkwood pine (Alstonia scholaris) trees following widespread resident complaints regarding intense scents. To mitigate immediate discomfort for sensitive groups, such as those with asthma or migraines, officials have directed the pruning of flower clusters near hospitals, schools, and residential zones.

To address long-term concerns, the Hanoi Department of Construction’s Technical Infrastructure Management Center is launching a public consultation process. Rather than pursuing mass relocation, the city intends to evaluate locations individually to balance public health with the preservation of urban identity. Residents will be surveyed to determine preferred management options, which include maintaining trees as they are, continuing regular care, selective pruning of flower clusters, or relocating specific trees to more suitable areas.

While the fragrance remains a cultural symbol of Hanoi’s autumn, some residents have resorted to using air purifiers or spraying water on trees to lessen the smell. The city continues to work toward a multi-year strategy that may include replacing high-density plantings with alternative species over the next three to seven years to improve urban living conditions.

## Claims

- Hanoi has no current plans to relocate or prune milkwood pine trees from densely populated residential areas. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Tree management is being conducted according to a recently approved urban greenery development scheme. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Any future relocation of milkwood pine trees would require a formal plan and consultation with residents and relevant agencies. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The center will seek city guidance regarding resident petitions to move trees due to the strong scent of the flowers. (corroborated by 2 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-19: Hanoi to consult residents on managing milkwood pine trees

Hanoi is surveying residents to decide on pruning or relocating milkwood pine trees in areas where their strong scent affects daily life, prioritizing both public health and urban landscape preservation.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hanoi-to-consult-residents-on-managing-milkwood-pine-trees

### 2026-10-14: Hanoi to reduce milkwood pine density to manage intense scents

Hanoi authorities plan to reduce milkwood pine tree density and prune flower clusters to mitigate intense scents causing headaches and nausea among residents.

13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hanoi-denies-plans-to-relocate-milkwood-pine-trees

### 2026-10-02: Hanoi proposes removing 7,386 hectares from forestry planning

Hanoi officials have proposed removing over 7,386 hectares of land from forestry planning to align official records with actual land use patterns.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hanoi-proposes-removing-7386-hectares-from-forestry-planning

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Cite as: Hanoi to consult residents on milkwood pine management. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/hanoi-urban-greenery-management