On the morning of 6/1, motorcycles almost entirely occupied the red-brown painted bicycle lane segment from Kenh 2 bridge to the Mai Chi Tho - Nguyen Co Thanh intersection. Despite a sign indicating a priority lane for bicycles before the entrance to Kenh 2 bridge, many motorcyclists disregarded it.

Despite the "bicycle priority lane" sign, many motorcyclists still entered it on the morning of 6/1. Photo: Dinh Van.

During traffic congestion, motorcycles overflowed into the priority lane, leaving cyclists stranded amidst the vehicles. Cyclists were forced to walk or carry their bikes onto the sidewalk to continue their journeys. This encroachment also occurred in renovated bicycle lane sections located between sidewalks on both sides of the road.

The dedicated bicycle lane on Mai Chi Tho Street is 5,8 km long and 2 m wide. It features a distinct color, separate signage, and an investment cost of approximately 14,2 billion VND. The route was designed as a "green belt" connecting major residential areas and was inaugurated on 31/12/2025.

The bicycle lane, paved with stone and asphalt with dedicated markings on the sidewalk, was used by motorcycles. Photo: Dinh Van.

In recent days, motorcycles have frequently encroached upon this lane. The Cat Lai Traffic Police Team, part of the Ho Chi Minh City Traffic Police Department, has conducted patrols and issued fines for numerous violations. Some individuals cited empty lanes or traffic congestion as reasons for entering the priority lane.

Mr. Doan Van Tan, Director of the Urban Traffic Management and Operations Center, stated that because the route is newly operational, vehicles are still unfamiliar with it, leading to incorrect lane usage. In the future, the center will coordinate with traffic police and local authorities to intensify public awareness campaigns, reminders, and enforcement of violations.

A cyclist rode onto the sidewalk as the priority lane was "overflowing" with motorcycles. Photo: Dinh Van.

The Cat Lai Traffic Police also announced plans to increase direct patrols and implement camera-based fines via the surveillance system to ensure the safety of the dedicated bicycle lane.

Dinh Van