The Ministry of Construction has submitted a report to the government detailing the review and resolution of ongoing issues in road traffic organization, including traffic signal systems.

According to the ministry, the sheer number of traffic signs and signal lights nationwide, combined with an ongoing restructuring of agencies during the review period, meant that some localities have not yet submitted their full reports.

Based on the 50 provincial reports received by March 25, the Vietnam Road Administration compiled the findings.

A representative of the Vietnam Road Administration stated that the nationwide review covered 5,209 traffic signal-controlled intersections. Among these, 586 clusters were found to have issues. So far, 139 clusters have been fixed, while 447 are still undergoing repairs.

Specifically, on national highways and expressways managed by the Ministry of Construction, there are 1,864 traffic signal clusters. Of these, 447 clusters were found to have issues; 83 have been resolved, and 364 remain under remediation.

For signal systems under the jurisdiction of local authorities in the 50 provinces, there are 3,253 installations. Among them, 139 problematic signal clusters were identified. To date, 56 have been repaired, leaving 83 still awaiting resolution.

The ministry identified several reasons for the malfunctions. Many signal clusters have been in operation for over five years and are exposed to harsh weather conditions - sun, rain, wind, and storms - causing green and red lights to flicker or become unstable.

Other problems include damaged power supply systems such as broken electrical cabinets, faulty components, or degraded batteries, which weaken the signal lights.

Additionally, some signal lights were damaged due to traffic accidents or general wear and tear, such as burnt-out bulbs. Many clusters still lack countdown timers.

There are further issues, such as missing or non-functional pedestrian signals at intersections and poorly positioned signal poles that are obscured from drivers' view.

As for traffic signs, reports from the 50 provinces and cities as of March 25 documented 6,962 signs with issues. Of these, 4,386 have been addressed, while 2,576 signs are still awaiting correction.

The main reason for these sign-related issues stems from the implementation of a new national technical regulation on road signs, effective January 1. Signs installed under previous standards are now considered outdated or noncompliant.

Other contributing factors include poor positioning of signs, necessitating relocation to improve traffic flow, and visual obstructions such as trees or barriers. Some auxiliary signs contain excessive information, making it difficult for road users to interpret them effectively.

N. Huyen