Ho Chi Minh City rush hour sends 40+ motorbikes onto sidewalks within minute

The violations were recorded near the Binh Loi roundabout in Hiep Binh Ward at around 7:00 am, as commuters and students crowded city roads.

While most vehicles waited at traffic lights, dozens of motorcyclists used the sidewalk to bypass congestion.

On Hoang Van Thu Street in Duc Nhuan Ward, 21 motorbikes mounted the sidewalk within a single minute during the same morning rush, forcing pedestrians to step aside.

Officials and traffic experts warn that sidewalk driving poses safety risks and damages public infrastructure.

“Sidewalks are not meant for vehicles. This behavior endangers pedestrians and contributes to traffic disorder,” a representative of the Ho Chi Minh City traffic police division said.

Repeated violations can also physically damage sidewalks, causing cracks and subsidence that pose additional risks to foot traffic.

Under Vietnamese traffic law, riding a motorbike on a sidewalk — except when entering a home or facility — is subject to fines of VND4 million (US$152) to VND6 million ($228) and a deduction of two points from the driver’s license.

Officials have called for stricter enforcement, improved infrastructure, and better traffic light coordination to reduce congestion and prevent further violations.

Some have also urged public campaigns to promote patient and respectful driving behavior, especially at intersections.