On 20/9, the Traffic Police Department (Ministry of Public Security) announced it had submitted a proposal to the Vietnam Road Administration to implement lane restrictions on 8 sections of 4-lane expressways: Da Nang - Quang Ngai, Hai Phong - Mong Cai, Ho Chi Minh City - Long Thanh - Dau Giay, Phan Thiet - Dau Giay, Cau Gie - Cao Bo, Bac Giang - Lang Son, Hanoi - Lao Cai, and Ho Chi Minh City - Trung Luong.

Ho Chi Minh City - Long Thanh - Dau Giay Expressway. Photo: Phuoc Tuan

Ho Chi Minh City - Long Thanh - Dau Giay Expressway. Photo: Phuoc Tuan

Under the proposal, trucks over 7.5 tons and buses with over 29 seats would be prohibited from using lane 1 (closest to the median strip). This lane, intended for cars, buses with under 30 seats, and smaller trucks, would have its minimum speed increased from 60 km/h to 80 km/h, with a maximum speed of 100-120 km/h. Lane 2, with a speed limit of 60-100 km/h, would be for all other vehicles.

The Traffic Police Department also suggested implementing lane separation at toll booths, dividing cars, buses, and trucks into separate lanes, and increasing driver awareness through public campaigns. Since 18/9, authorities have begun providing practical guidance at toll stations.

Lane restrictions were previously piloted on the Hanoi - Hai Phong and Phap Van - Cau Gie expressways, resulting in smoother traffic flow according to many drivers.

Trucks and buses account for only 2.49% of registered vehicles but are involved in over 37% of traffic accidents and over 40% of traffic fatalities. Many drivers deliberately drive slowly in lane 1 or change lanes frequently, causing congestion and potential accidents.

Viet An