Motorbikes encroach on bicycle lane along Mai Chi Tho Boulevard in Ho Chi Minh City

The bicycle lane along Mai Chi Tho Boulevard in An Khanh Ward opened to the public on December 31.

The 5.8km lane runs parallel to the sidewalk of Mai Chi Tho Boulevard, extending from Nguyen Co Thach Street to Street D1.

It measures two meters in width, with a maximum speed limit of 20km per hour.

The asphalt surface features clear markings, and intersections are painted red for improved visibility and safety, according to the Vietnam News Agency.

As per observations by Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper reporters, the bicycle lane along Mai Chi Tho Boulevard is frequently occupied by motorbikes, especially during morning and evening rush hours.

Many motorbikes travel at relatively high speed, forcing cyclists to steer close to the curb to avoid collisions.

In some sections, cars are also seen stopping or parking directly across the bicycle lane, further obstructing cyclists’ movement.

“Opening a bicycle lane is a very good idea, and I was really happy about it. However, motorbikes constantly use this lane, sometimes it's even more crowded than the adjacent lane,” said T.Q.N., a resident of An Khanh Ward, who regularly cycles along this route for exercise and commuting.

“When motorbikes pass very close while I’m cycling, I’m always afraid of being sideswiped and falling."

Many road users believe the main reason for the encroachment is the limited awareness and compliance with traffic laws among some drivers.

Although the lane markings and directional signs are clearly displayed, many motorcyclists deliberately enter the bicycle lane to avoid congestion, particularly during rush hours.

An officer from the Cat Lai Traffic Police Team under the Ho Chi Minh City Traffic Police Division said that patrols and enforcement would be stepped up to deal with violations.

The officer noted that the bicycle lane on Mai Chi Tho Boulevard has been clearly designated with signs indicating it is exclusively for bicycles.

Other vehicles, including motorbikes and cars, are prohibited from entering the lane and will be penalized in accordance with the law if they do so.

Under Decree 168/2024, motorcyclists who fail to use the correct lane or road section face fines ranging from VND600,000 (US$23) to ($30.4).

For car drivers, the penalty ranges from VND4 million ($152) to VND6 million ($228), along with a deduction of two points from their driver's license.

The bicycle lane on Mai Chi Tho Boulevard was aimed at encouraging the use of eco-friendly transport, easing traffic pressure, and contributing to environmental protection.