Currently, Hanoi is seeking public opinion on the draft resolution titled "Regulations on fines for certain administrative violations in road traffic within the city."

According to the proposal, traffic violations under Decree 168/2024 that currently carry lower penalties will see a twofold increase, while those with higher fines will be raised by 1.5 times.

For instance, reversing a vehicle on a one-way street, in areas marked with "no entry" signs, prohibited stopping zones, pedestrian crossings, intersections, railway crossings, areas with obstructed visibility, or failing to observe surroundings while reversing - currently punishable by fines of VND 2–3 million (about USD 80–120) under Decree 168 - will see penalties increased to VND 4–6 million (about USD 160–240).

Similarly, violations such as driving in the wrong lane, whether in the same or opposite direction, currently subject to fines of VND 4–6 million (about USD 160–240) for cars and VND 600,000–800,000 (about USD 24–32) for motorbikes, will be raised to VND 8–12 million (about USD 320–480) for cars and VND 1.2–1.6 million (about USD 48–64) for motorbikes.

Why Hanoi is increasing penalties

Hanoi authorities justify the proposal by citing the city's role as Vietnam’s political, economic, cultural, and educational center, with a population of over 8.5 million and a major national transportation hub.

Despite efforts to improve compliance, traffic violations remain widespread, particularly in cases such as disobeying road markings, ignoring traffic signs, riding without helmets, driving against traffic, and using restricted lanes.

Additionally, under the newly enacted Capital Law, which took effect on January 1, the Hanoi People's Council is allowed to impose fines up to twice the amount stipulated by the national government for certain administrative traffic violations.

Based on these factors, city officials believe increasing penalties is necessary to enhance compliance, foster better traffic culture, and reduce congestion and accidents. Once public feedback is collected, the draft resolution will be submitted to the municipal council for approval, with implementation expected in July.

Expert opinion: Address congestion instead of just raising fines

Speaking to VietNamNet, Dr. Khuong Kim Tao, former Deputy Chief of the National Traffic Safety Committee’s Office, argued that traffic violations stem not just from lax enforcement but also from broader issues related to public awareness and social behavior.

"Increasing fines should be seen as a supplementary measure to reinforce compliance, rather than a standalone solution," he said. "The long-term goal should be to establish a comprehensive traffic education system, ensuring that road users not only understand traffic laws but also adopt responsible and civilized behavior."

Dr. Tao also highlighted that Vietnam still experiences high rates of traffic accidents, with reckless behavior posing significant risks not only in Hanoi but also in provinces with highways and major national roads.

"While stricter penalties for serious violations are necessary, they are only one piece of the puzzle in creating a safer and more orderly traffic system," he emphasized.

Instead of solely focusing on increasing fines, he urged Hanoi to prioritize resolving its chronic traffic congestion - an issue that has persisted for years. He called for holistic, long-term solutions rather than relying on penalties alone.

"Rather than simply raising fines, the city should invest in effective traffic monitoring systems, incorporating advanced technology and strict management measures to ensure widespread compliance," Dr. Tao said. "This approach will contribute to a cleaner, more orderly, and more livable Hanoi."

N. Huyen