Motorbikes flood sidewalks in Ho Chi Minh City despite heavy fines

Readers recently told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that many streets in the city remain clogged with motorbikes using sidewalks as alternative lanes.

The issue was also raised by Lieutenant General Mai Hoang, director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Public Security, during a municipal Party Committee meeting on Monday.

He noted that sidewalk encroachment, though reduced for a time, has resurfaced.

On Tuesday morning, Tuoi Tre reporters observed long lines of motorbikes mounting sidewalks on major streets such as Tay Thanh, Truong Chinh, Cach Mang Thang Tam, Ly Thuong Kiet, Nguyen Oanh, Phan Van Tri, and Nguyen Xi.

At peak hours, motorcyclists queued one after another, many wearing delivery rider or ride-hailing uniforms.

Local residents said the problem is most severe at rush hour.

“This not only blocks pedestrian walkways but also increases accident risks and damages sidewalk tiles,” one resident explained.

Another added that following traffic rules is essential not only for safety but also for building a more civilized urban environment.

Under Decree 168, which took effect on January 1, motorbike riders in Vietnam can be fined VND4–6 million ($152–227) for driving on sidewalks, except when entering homes, offices, or shops.

Offenders also lose two points from their 12-point driver’s licenses.