In fact, that desire is not something strange or new. Because Hanoi itself, on the occasion of National Day September 2nd, once implemented the entire subsidized bus system and urban railway lines for free. This decision was highly appreciated at that time, not only because of its economic value, but also because of its social, cultural and humanistic message that the city sent to the people.
Tet, for Hanoi people in particular and Vietnamese people in general, is not simply a holiday. It is a time of reunion and reunion, a time when people travel more to visit, enjoy spring, and participate in cultural and festival activities. In the context that urban traffic is still under great pressure, encouraging people to use public transport instead of personal vehicles is the right direction, which has been mentioned for many years.
Free buses and trains during Tet is a direct, clear and most effective way to encourage. When cost barriers are removed, people have more reasons to choose buses and metro lines instead of motorbikes and personal cars. This not only helps reduce congestion, but also contributes to limiting traffic accidents and reducing environmental pollution - issues that are always "hot" in Hanoi every holiday and Tet.
Looking at the story of bus free travel in the two localities, it can be seen that the benefits of this policy are very specific. Free travel not only brings joy to people, but is also an opportunity for the public transport system to "score points", create a habit and positive experience for passengers. With the metro - a new, modern type of transport - free days are also an opportunity for people to access and get acquainted, thereby forming a long-term usage habit.
Hanoi is gradually expanding and completing the public transport network, with buses covering wide areas and urban railway lines that have been, are and will be put into operation. In that context, free buses and trains during Tet is not too much of a burden, if viewed from the perspective of investing in the long-term benefits of the city.
It should be emphasized that free here is not just "giving no bus tickets". That is the sharing of the government with the people on important holidays; it is a way for the city to show its spirit of service, taking the people as the center. With many low-income workers, workers, students, the elderly, children, being able to travel free for a few Tet days is much more practical than dry statistics.
Of course, any policy needs to be carefully calculated. Free travel during Tet requires a scientific organization plan, reasonable trip increases, ensuring safety, avoiding local overload. But this is not a new problem. Hanoi did it on September 2nd, Ho Chi Minh City is doing it. Many major cities in the world also consider this as part of a sustainable transport development strategy.
What Hanoi people desire is not a privilege, but a logical continuation of pre-existing policies.
Tet is a time to share, to make the city more friendly and closer to the people. A bus ticket, a free train ride may not be of great material value, but it carries a very clear message: The city accompanies the people during the days of reunion. And that is exactly what Hanoi people are waiting for every Tet and spring.
