The streets of Ho Chi Minh City are alive, bustling with motion, yet noticeably tamer than they were in the past. Fewer people gather to relax or sit idly, though some still do. For pedestrians like us, navigating the city feels a little more manageable these days, thanks to recent regulations aimed at improving traffic flow and creating more pedestrian-friendly spaces.
Today, the city’s traffic is still heavy, but it seems to be more organized. This shift is a welcome change for those who choose to walk, providing a rare sense of relief amidst the urban chaos. Such regulations remind me of the new rules in New York City, where vehicles entering the downtown area now face a $9 fee. While it may sound restrictive, this approach has reduced the number of cars significantly. Of course, in New York, people drive cars, not motorbikes like we do here.
The comparison between the two cities highlights a shared challenge: traffic congestion. In both places, respect for pedestrians remains a struggle. Here, motorbikes often zip past without much regard for foot traffic. Meanwhile, cars adhere to the rules more closely, likely out of fear of fines. Things are improving, though. New measures, such as prohibiting right turns at certain intersections, are making the streets safer for walkers.
Take the iconic Le Thanh Ton and Dong Khoi intersection, for example. It used to be a free-for-all, with vehicles darting in all directions. Now, with traffic lights and clearer rules, crossing the street feels much less like a daring game of chance. The area around Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office has become more organized too. Traffic lights are obeyed more frequently, and pedestrians can cross with more confidence.
In the past, crossing busy streets required nerves of steel and impeccable timing. Today, the changes are evident. Cars and motorbikes stop at red lights, creating a rare opportunity for pedestrians to cross safely. It’s not perfect, but it’s progress.
Interestingly, the new restrictions on right turns have sparked debate. While it’s inconvenient for drivers, it’s undeniably better for pedestrians. If vehicles are allowed to turn right, it becomes harder for walkers to navigate safely. The balance between convenience and safety is delicate, but the improvements are noticeable.
Walking through the city’s heart, you can’t help but notice how it blends old-world charm with modern influences. On one side of the street, colonial-era architecture stands as a testament to history, while on the other, sleek hotels and shopping centers reflect a contemporary vision.
Ho Chi Minh City is evolving, borrowing ideas from global urban centers while maintaining its unique identity. To me, these changes signify progress. While they may not mirror the advancements of some Southeast Asian cities, they mark a step forward for this vibrant metropolis.
As I stroll through the city’s lively streets, it’s clear that Ho Chi Minh City is in transition—a city learning to balance the old with the new, chaos with order, and vehicles with pedestrians.
By Ngoc Tran
