Ho Chi Minh City eyes installing more in-ground crosswalk traffic lights after positive feedback

Early this month, the municipal Department of Construction, a merger of the construction department and the transport department during Vietnam’s recent administrative restructuring, installed an in-ground traffic signal system at a crosswalk in front of 18 Ton Duc Thang Street in District 1.

This supplementary traffic signal system features embedded green and red LED lights at the edge of crosswalks, along with a push-button for pedestrians to activate the crossing signal.

The initiative aims to enhance pedestrian safety by addressing common challenges such as obstructed views of traffic signals due to large vehicles, poor visibility during heavy rain, or difficulties faced by people with limited vision.

By lighting up directly underfoot, the system makes the crossing zone more visible and helps pedestrians identify exactly where to wait.

According to the department, initial monitoring shows that the system improves safety and has been positively received, particularly at night and during bad weather.

Encouraged by the results, the department is considering installing the system at two to three more busy locations in District 1, including Le Loi Boulevard and Pasteur Street, before submitting a broader rollout plan for other urban and complex traffic areas.