Banning motorcycles in Hanoi is not so straightforward

Hanoi stands at a critical crossroads. The city’s air quality and traffic congestion have long been in a state of crisis, and bold action is needed to reverse the damage.

I was hopeful in 2022 when the announcement came that motorcycles would be banned in central districts by 2025. But now, with 2025 just over a year away, I can’t help but wonder: where is this plan heading?

As a frequent pedestrian in Hanoi, I have witnessed firsthand the convenience that motorcycles seem to offer. They zip through every crevice in traffic, dodge red lights and even occupy pedestrian lanes. For many, these features are seen as reasons to defend motorcycles’ continued existence in the city. But beneath the surface, this so-called « convenience » only adds to the chaos, worsening congestion and endangering lives. Motorcycles are not just a practical tool; they symbolize an outdated mindset that has hindered Hanoi’s urban progress.

Hanoi’s road system is a mess, a maze of narrow alleys and blocked streets. Without dramatic changes, public transport simply cannot function as it should. So why not take a simple first step? Imagine free bicycles waiting at bus or metro stations, allowing people to easily travel from their homes to public transport stops. This could be the nudge Hanoi residents need to reconsider their dependence on motorcycles and begin embracing a more sustainable future.

However, the issue is not as simple as just banning motorcycles. Such a drastic step, if taken hastily, would inevitably push people toward car ownership, worsening traffic even further. This transition requires a well-thought-out and gradual plan. The public transport system must first become robust and reliable, offering a clear alternative. Only then, when people see the genuine benefits, will they voluntarily shift away from motorcycles. A well-executed public transport system will naturally lead to a reduction in personal vehicle use: first motorcycles, then even cars.

Of course, motorcycles are tied to more than just traffic. They are deeply embedded in Hanoi’s economy and culture. For many, they represent a livelihood. But as the city and society evolve, so too will the economy, creating new opportunities that will gradually phase out jobs dependent on motorcycles. The habit of using motorcycles, born out of necessity and convenience, will fade as public transport becomes more efficient and accessible.

I fully support the vision of a motorcycle-free Hanoi, but it must be done thoughtfully. The real solution lies in a broader, long-term strategy. It is not just about banning motorcycles, but also about charging car fees and incentivizing the use of electric vehicles. This is not an overnight fix: it is about reshaping habits, creating new norms and making public transport a preferable option for the majority.

Encouraging people to switch to metro lines, buses and electric vehicles is the future. Gradually reducing the number of motorcycles, and eventually personal vehicles, will require both visionary leadership and patience. Cutting back on ingrained habits takes time, but it is essential for the well-being of the city and its residents.

The ban on motorcycles is not just a knee-jerk reaction to traffic problems; it is an inevitable outcome of Hanoi’s development. And when the time comes, the city must be bold in its execution. Hanoi’s air quality and overall quality of life depend on the city’s leaders having the courage to make hard decisions and seeing them through.

The future of Hanoi will be one with cleaner air, less congestion and a public transport system that truly serves its people. But getting there requires a comprehensive plan; one that addresses not just the traffic on the streets, but also the deeper, more ingrained habits of its residents.

By Bach Kim – VnExpress.net – October 18, 2024