3 changes to solve the traffic congestion problem in Vietnam

A strong economy relies on smooth traffic flow. Well-planned, efficient roads drive a nation's economic and social progress. A seamless transport network keeps a country moving forward.

On a macro level, Vietnam needs highways and national transport corridors. On a micro level, the focus should be on easing urban congestion to save commuting time and improve work efficiency.

Heavy traffic at a major intersection in Ho Chi Minh City, April 2024. Photo by VnExpress/Thanh Tung

Traffic congestion in Vietnamese cities can be reduced by improving traffic flow. Several changes can help Vietnam achieve this.

First, reduce direct vehicle conflicts at intersections. When overpasses and tunnels aren't available, local authorities should limit the number of vehicles crossing key junctions. Adding U-turn points before intersections and restricting left turns can also help. Smart traffic planning can further reduce conflicts.

Second, speed up vehicle clearance at intersections. Clearing bottlenecks faster will ease congestion across the road network. Where traffic streams don't cross paths, vehicle flow should remain uninterrupted.

At three-way intersections, the unblocked direction should always keep moving. At four-way intersections, right turns onto major roads should stay open. On smaller roads, motorcycle lanes (about 100 meters long) should be marked before intersections to help clear traffic faster.

Third, balance the number of vehicles entering and exiting intersections. When more vehicles enter than leave a road, congestion builds up. This is common on elevated roads where speed limit signs force vehicles to slow down, creating bottlenecks.

Speed limit signs should only be placed when and where necessary. Lane allocation should match traffic volume, prioritizing roads with heavier traffic flow.

Applying these three changes could help resolve the constant congestion at the Khuat Duy Tien–Nguyen Trai intersection in Hanoi. One solution is removing traffic lights to maximize vehicle movement. This would require broader adjustments, such as closing the straight-through lane on Nguyen Trai, which already has an underpass. Signage at the intersection should also be redesigned for better clarity.

Each intersection in Vietnam faces unique traffic challenges and requires specific solutions. Traffic planners must experience these areas firsthand at different times, using motorcycles, cars, and buses, while analyzing data to make timely adjustments.