On 15/8, a new regulation prohibiting standard trucks, specialized trucks, and semi-trailers (except for certain specialized types) from using the innermost lane adjacent to the median strip went into effect on the Phap Van - Cau Gie and Hanoi - Hai Phong expressways. During the first day, traffic police focused on educating drivers about the change through loudspeaker announcements and guidance, rather than issuing fines.

Under the new pilot program, the innermost lane is reserved for regular vehicles. The maximum speed on the Phap Van - Cau Gie Expressway is 100 km/h, with a minimum speed of 60-80 km/h depending on the lane. On the Hanoi - Hai Phong Expressway, the maximum speed for lanes 1 and 2 is 120 km/h, while lane 3 has a maximum speed of 100 km/h and a minimum of 60 km/h.

Traffic Police Team Number 3 was stationed at the entrance to the Phap Van toll station, continuously broadcasting announcements about the new rule. Patrol cars traveled along the expressways, identifying and informing drivers to change lanes. Within 30 minutes, dozens of drivers were instructed to move to lanes 2 or 3, with some pulled over for further explanation.

New signs installed at the entrance to Phap Van - Cau Gie Expressway. Photo: Viet An

Many drivers admitted they were unaware of the new rule but expressed support for lane restrictions to prevent slow-moving trucks in the high-speed lane. "Heavy vehicles should use lanes 2 and 3 to limit sudden braking," said Le Tien Khoa, a container truck driver from Bac Ninh.

Lieutenant Pham Van Tiep of Traffic Police Team Number 3 stated that the force would concentrate on public awareness in the initial days. New lane and speed limit signs are being installed on the route heading into the city for the benefit of commuters. The signs were previously installed on the outbound route. The pilot program will run for one month, ending on 15/9.

Trucks are prohibited from using the lane next to the median strip. Photo: Viet An

Viet An