As images surface of cars forming rows and pushing motorbikes into narrow gaps, many believe the problem lies in drivers not obeying designated lanes. Others say it’s just the result of chaos in urban traffic.

A recent VietNamNet article highlighted a startling reality during Hanoi’s rush hours: cars forming five to six lanes across entire roads, leaving little space for motorcyclists who are forced to weave through traffic or ride on sidewalks.

On Nguyen Trai Street, near Thuong Dinh Station, cars consistently occupy nearly the entire road, forcing motorbikes to zigzag through small gaps. This stretch of road once had physical barriers separating cars and motorbikes, which have since been removed - yet the lane signage remains.

At Nga Tu So overpass, despite lanes being designated for mixed traffic, cars regularly double up, forcing motorcyclists to squeeze through dangerously.

Nguyen Xien Street, from the intersection with Nghiem Xuan Yem to Khuat Duy Tien - Nguyen Trai, often sees four to five car lanes blocking the entire road, with motorbikes riding on the sidewalk as a last resort.

Similarly, on Tran Duy Hung Street near the Lang overpass, motorcyclists often find themselves completely surrounded by cars.

The article sparked mixed reactions among readers.

Reader Mai Huong pointed out that on Ngoc Hoi - Giai Phong Street, cars frequently intrude into the motorbike lane, creating dangerous situations and increasing the risk of accidents.

Bui Thanh Mien argued that many car drivers lack consideration, driving too close to the sidewalk and leaving motorcyclists with nowhere to go. “This behavior is a major reason for Hanoi’s traffic jams,” she said.

Nguyen Manh Hung from Hanoi noted that Nguyen Trai Street has five marked lanes, yet up to seven cars may form across them. “If motorcyclists don’t ride on the sidewalk or squeeze between cars, they simply can’t move,” he said.

However, some blamed motorcyclists instead.

Nguyen Manh Hai said that traffic congestion occurs because motorbikes often ride erratically, taking over car lanes and forcing drivers to find alternate paths.

Nguyen Nam from Cau Giay, Hanoi, noted that motorcycles, being smaller and more maneuverable, tend to go wherever they please, ignoring lane rules and blocking car movement.

Others advocated for clearer traffic separation. Mai Lien from Thanh Hoa said the mix of cars and motorbikes is a chronic issue in all developing cities. “Only proper traffic planning and separated lanes can fix this.”

Manh Quang from Nghe An agreed, adding that motorbike lanes must be wide enough to function properly. “Only then can we prevent bikes from riding on sidewalks or into car lanes - and reduce unnecessary accidents.”

Dang Nhat from Ho Chi Minh City stressed that sharing road space among various vehicles on the same level leads to congestion and collisions. “The only solution is hard dividers, and mutual respect from all road users.”

Some readers also called for stricter enforcement of traffic rules.

Nguyen Nhu Y from Hanoi suggested combining on-the-spot fines with automated camera-based penalties. “Once lanes are defined, violators must be fined. Without serious enforcement, no one will comply.”

Dinh Hieu