Cars with more than 16 seats are only allowed to operate within the time frame in the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake, except for buses and school shuttles.
The pilot period starts from March 1, morning from 6:30 to 8:30, afternoon from 16:30 to 18:30. After 6 months, the agencies will evaluate the effectiveness and report to the city.
The proposal of the Hanoi Department of Transport to ban cars with more than 16 seats from circulating during rush hour in the Old Quarter is very suitable for the current traffic congestion and environmental pollution in the capital, especially in the central area.
The roads in the old town are very narrow, with many intersections, and a large volume of vehicles, so traffic jams often occur, especially during rush hours. Traffic congestion and emissions into the environment cause air pollution, affecting people's health. Therefore, the solution to limit traffic in this area is very appropriate.
After the pilot period, if the results are good, Hanoi city should consider banning private vehicles from circulating in the Old Quarter.
In this area, the transportation industry organizes a mini electric bus system to serve residents and tourists for free or at a low fare. The benefits of modern urban transportation and a clean environment are immeasurable, much greater than spending a budget to serve residents with electric buses.
Some people argue that the old town is a commercial area, with many trucks carrying goods for the shops. This need will be met by regulations allowing trucks to circulate during certain hours, for example from 9pm to 6am.
If the government wants people to switch from personal vehicles to public transport, it must organize a clean, beautiful and convenient mini bus system. Not to mention, limiting personal vehicles and replacing them with modern public vehicles will make the central area of Hanoi more beautiful and civilized.
For people, it is necessary to proactively change travel habits to public transport, bicycles, and walking to help reduce congestion and pollution. Only when everyone is aware of the common good will there be personal benefits.
Fresh air and a clean city are what everyone wants because they are values for everyone.