Firstly, it is an area where economic, cultural and social development activities are concentrated; there is a high population density, there are areas/places that need to be preserved, and there is potential for developing cultural and social tourism.
Second, the area is suffering from air pollution due to emissions from traffic.
Third, the area has infrastructure that meets the requirements of low-emission public transport, and is capable of organizing traffic in a suitable, convenient and scientific manner.
Fourth, the area is eligible to adopt stricter vehicle emissions standards.
Fifth, the area where the government and people agree to build a low emission zone.
Hanoi restricting gasoline cars and motorbikes to minimize environmental pollution is necessary and in line with the people's wishes.
Because breathing fresh air without affecting health is the standard of living of civilized people. However, for many years, Hanoi has been ranked as the most air polluted city in the world.
One of the causes of air pollution in Hanoi is emissions from cars and motorbikes. Limiting the use of gasoline-powered vehicles will obviously reduce emissions, which is the right thing to do.
But there are two accompanying problems that need to be solved, which are traffic organization and people's livelihoods.
The traffic restrictions in the above 5 areas require the government to provide alternative public transport services. People can actively use bicycles or electric vehicles instead, but the government must be responsible for organizing a public transport system to serve convenient travel.
With only two months left until 2025, what kind of alternative vehicles has the Hanoi Transport Department prepared for people to travel when gasoline cars and motorbikes are limited?
It's easy for the government to decide to restrict or ban, but if the math involved is not solved, everything will be in vain, back to square one.
Next, we must consider people's livelihoods.
Restricting the use of gasoline and oil in transportation directly affects the business, trade and transportation activities of many people. For example, the group of workers who drive motorbike taxis and other types of transportation will face difficulties.
Restrictions are necessary, moving towards banning motorbikes is better, but there must be a specific roadmap for people to change and adapt. Ideally, there should be a policy to support workers to switch from gasoline vehicles to electric vehicles.
