Da Lat uses 100 minibuses to ease downtown traffic jam

The transport department of Lam Dong Province, home to Da Lat, has collaborated with HCMC-based Phuong Trang Bus Line JSC to have 100 minibuses operate on three routes connecting Da Lat's center with the town's Xuan Truong Commune, Don Duong District, and Bao Loc Town.

According to the department, the three minibus bus routes will allow tourists and locals to reach most famous Da Lat landmarks, helping reduce traffic jams in the downtown area.

The buses, made in Russia, can seat 16 passengers and has standing space for eight more. Ticket prices will depend on the trip, but stay at a flat VND5,000 ($0.22) for students.

Da Lat has seen a surge in visitors in recent years, especially during weekends and holidays, resulting in increased traffic congestion in downtown areas.

In 2018, the town said it was considering building a seven-storied public parking lot and banning buses of over 45 seats from entering its downtown area, but the plan has not been implemented.

The resort town was originally designed for around 90,000 people in early 20th century, but its population has ballooned to nearly 230,000 and it welcomes around seven million visitors a year.

Last October, the Central Highlands town installed its first ever traffic light system to manage the increasing traffic flows.