On the afternoon of January 16, Ho Chi Minh City authorities held a press conference addressing economic and social issues, with a particular focus on traffic congestion and the effects of Decree 168.

Improvements and challenges under Decree 168

Nguyen Thanh Loi, Deputy Head of Ho Chi Minh City’s Traffic Safety Committee, highlighted positive changes since the enforcement of Decree 168. The stricter penalties have significantly reduced common violations such as driving on sidewalks and disregarding traffic signals, leading to a substantial decrease in traffic accidents.

However, Loi acknowledged the unintended consequence of increased congestion.

He attributed this to the year-end surge in travel and freight demand, combined with improved public compliance with traffic laws. As more drivers refrain from using sidewalks, vehicle queues on the streets have become longer.

Ho Chi Minh City's traffic infrastructure, designed for a much smaller volume, is now struggling to handle over 10 million personal vehicles, including 1 million cars and the remainder motorcycles, not to mention transient vehicles.

Additionally, technical issues with traffic signal management and occasional delays in coordination among agencies have further exacerbated congestion.

Efforts to mitigate congestion

Authorities are actively working to address these issues. The city plans to upgrade traffic signals and install right-turn signals at 534 intersections by January 19, accommodating smoother vehicle flow.

Efforts are also underway to reclaim encroached sidewalks and roadways, creating more space for traffic.

Regarding public feedback on traffic violations, officials clarified that penalties would only be imposed if violations met specific criteria, ensuring fairness in enforcement.

The Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee has directed relevant agencies to implement immediate solutions to alleviate congestion while maintaining order and convenience for commuters.

Do Ngoc Hai, Head of the Road Infrastructure Management Division at the Department of Transport, noted that traffic volume in central areas has increased by 11% year-on-year, compounded by festival-related events requiring traffic diversions.

Hai emphasized that Decree 168 has not caused congestion but rather improved discipline among drivers, resulting in longer, more orderly queues.

The Department of Transport is currently reassessing signal systems and aims to optimize right-turn signals by addressing impractical placements. Where right-turn signals are unfeasible, alternative solutions will be explored.

Hai also acknowledged that while signal and signage systems are mostly in place, the city’s overall traffic infrastructure remains insufficient to meet demand. Expanding and upgrading infrastructure will require significant time and investment.

In the interim, authorities will continue monitoring and managing traffic to provide immediate, practical relief to commuters.

Ho Van & Dam De