Ho Chi Minh City is set to launch its first reversible lane system on Cong Hoa Street starting 15/5. This innovative traffic management solution, covering a 2,5 km stretch from Ut Tich to Truong Chinh, aims to significantly increase traffic capacity and reduce congestion, particularly at the critical Tan Son Nhat Airport gateway. The plan involves flexibly adjusting two middle lanes during peak hours, directing traffic towards the city center in the morning and away in the afternoon.

Cong Hoa Street has had its median strip removed, creating additional middle lanes in preparation for reversible traffic flow. *Quynh Tran*

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction is implementing this new traffic organization plan after completing the removal of the median strip to widen the road. Under the scheme, the two lanes closest to the sidewalk on each side will maintain their existing one-way flow. The key innovation lies in the two middle lanes, whose direction will be adjusted according to specific time frames. In the morning, when vehicle volume from the northwest towards the city center and Tan Son Nhat Airport is high, these two lanes will operate one-way from Truong Chinh to Ut Tich, increasing the total number of inbound lanes to 4. Conversely, in the afternoon, the plan reverses to prioritize vehicles traveling from the city center towards Truong Chinh and An Suong intersection, helping to alleviate end-of-day traffic pressure. Outside peak hours, these two middle lanes will function as normal two-way traffic.

This initiative marks the first time Ho Chi Minh City has adopted a flexible, time-based reversible lane model on a major traffic route. It aims to maximize the use of existing infrastructure without requiring further road expansion. Cong Hoa Street serves as a vital traffic artery, connecting the northwest region with the city's center and Tan Son Nhat Airport. For many years, this route has been frequently overloaded, especially at the Cong Hoa - Hoang Hoa Tham intersection. The new plan is expected to contribute to reducing congestion in the airport gateway area.

Reversible lane organization plan. *Khanh Hoang*

Additionally, an elevated road project along this route is also being proposed for implementation to enhance connectivity and further reduce congestion in the area.

Giang Anh