Hanoi police launch citywide crackdown on sidewalk, road encroachments

Police units inspected streets, warned residents and businesses, and removed tables, chairs and other items occupying pedestrian areas, according to city officials. 

The campaign targeted informal markets, outdoor dining and unauthorized vehicle parking.

In several wards, including Tay Ho and Hoan Kiem, officers dismantled sidewalk markets and ordered businesses to stop placing furniture beyond permitted areas. 

Parking operators were instructed to comply with licensing conditions, including marked parking zones and electronic ticketing.

Authorities said most businesses complied, though violations were still found in some locations. 

Police confiscated items used to block sidewalks and required violators to sign commitments not to repeat the offenses.

The operation follows a municipal plan approved earlier this year aimed at addressing what city officials describe as persistent bottlenecks in urban order management. 

The plan sets standards for sidewalk use, traffic organization, sanitation and streetscape management.

Hanoi authorities said enforcement will be carried out on a regular basis to maintain pedestrian access and urban discipline.