Since April 4, 2024, the Cam Lo – La Son Expressway has officially banned passenger buses with over 30 seats, sleeper buses, and trucks with 6 or more axles on the Son Dong section. This decision by the Vietnam Road Administration aims to reduce traffic accidents but has sparked controversy and concern, especially in Thua Thien – Hue and Quang Tri provinces.
Thua Thien – Hue Proposes Lifting the Ban
Le Toan Thang, Deputy Director of the Department of Transport of Thua Thien – Hue province, stated that the province had made its own recommendations before the ban was issued. Mr. Thang affirmed that the initial goal of the expressway was to reduce traffic on National Highway 1. However, the first phase of the project has many limitations, and the absence of tolls has led to a surge in traffic volume, resulting in several serious accidents.
Le Toan Thang, Deputy Director of the Department of Transport of Thua Thien – Hue province, speaking at a meeting
Despite complying with the decision of the Vietnam Road Administration, Thua Thien – Hue province has proposed allowing the banned vehicles to circulate. The reason is that banning vehicles may increase traffic pressure back onto National Highway 1, which could increase the risk of traffic accidents. The province will continue to monitor the situation and make timely proposals. Previously, the Provincial Traffic Safety Board also sent a document with comments opposing the ban.
Quang Tri Worries About Pressure on QL1 Road
Tran Huu Hung, Director of the Department of Transport of Quang Tri province, agreed with limiting vehicles on the expressway due to unsafe infrastructure. Mr. Hung pointed out several objective reasons for accidents, such as: many “bottleneck” points, and heavy trucks not complying with the minimum speed of 60km/h.
Tran Huu Hung, Director of the Department of Transport of Quang Tri province, giving an interview
However, Mr. Hung also worried that the ban would cause traffic to converge on National Highway 1, with the truck ban on the Son Dong section putting great pressure on Dong Ha city due to the lack of a bypass.
Immediate Solutions, Awaiting Expressway Upgrade
Mr. Hung emphasized that drivers’ compliance with traffic laws is the decisive factor in reducing accidents. Vehicle diversion is only a temporary solution, awaiting the upgrade and expansion of the expressway. He urged people and vehicles to strictly comply with regulations. Mr. Hung also believes that the central agencies have carefully discussed the matter, and now need consensus and compliance from the people.
Traffic jam on National Highway 1 after the expressway ban
The truck ban on the Son Dong section and other vehicles on the Cam Lo – La Son Expressway is a hot issue, requiring coordination between functional agencies and people to find optimal solutions, ensuring traffic safety and socio-economic development.
