Fines for a range of traffic violations have seen significant increases under the new decree by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh which took effect from January 1, 2025.
Motorbike drivers caught running red lights, riding in the wrong direction, or encroaching on pavements now face fines of between VND4-6 million, a 10-fold increase from the previous penalty.
The stricter fines have helped regain space for pedestrians on pavements in many streets in HCM City. People travel on Nguyen Van Khoi Street during the morning rush hours.
People wait patiently at a red light onTruong Chinh Street in Tan Binh District.
A section of the pavement on Cong Hoa Street has been damaged due to vehicle encroachment.
A resident, Ho Thi Phuong, said that Cong Hoa Street often sees serious congestion during the morning and afternoon rush hours.
“We used to go on the pavements when facing traffic jams," Phuong said. "But now with those very high fines, we have to strictly obey the rules."
Another resident, Pham Van Hoang, said that he supported the increased fines for traffic violations as it would help gradually solve traffic congestion and reduce accidents.
According to the Traffic Police Department, accidents and congestion, particularly in major cities, have become increasingly severe, posing significant risks to public safety. As a result, restoring traffic order has become an urgent priority.