This pilot project marks the first tangible step in realizing the city's vision for sustainable transportation.

Workers have fenced off and reshaped the sidewalk along the route to create space for the new lane, drawing public attention and optimism for a shift in commuting habits.

Back in mid-2022, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Transport (now under the Department of Construction) proposed designing bike lanes on the Hanoi Highway (now Vo Nguyen Giap Street), one of the city’s key eastern arteries. The proposed route runs parallel to the Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien elevated metro line and passes through several major urban zones.

Preliminary studies emphasized the urgent need for a safe, separate lane for cyclists, who currently share road space with motor vehicles – often at great risk.

After a lengthy design and feasibility phase, the city officially launched the trial project on October 10. It is expected to be completed within three months.

According to the Urban Traffic Management Center (under the Department of Construction), the cycling lane will stretch nearly 5.8 kilometers, running from Nguyen Co Thach Street to D1 Street and back.

The two-meter-wide lane will sit adjacent to the sidewalk, allowing cyclists to travel at speeds up to 20km/h. On bridges along the route, the lane will narrow to 1.5 meters.

Built with asphalt concrete and finished with painted surface markings, the lane will clearly distinguish itself from vehicle lanes. The project will also include lighting, drainage, public bike racks, and stations for the city’s public bike-sharing system.

The initiative aims to provide safe, convenient access for cyclists while promoting eco-friendly transport options in the city.

Ho Chi Minh City hopes this green initiative will help reduce emissions from motor vehicles and slowly reshape public commuting habits toward sustainability and lower carbon output.

Plans for expansion in 2026

Following the pilot phase, the city plans to extend the bike lane by an additional 4km in 2026.

The proposed extensions include a segment from Nguyen Co Thach to the Saigon River Park and another from D1 to Vo Nguyen Giap, which will link directly to An Phu Metro Station (on the Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien line).

Mai Chi Tho Boulevard currently features 12 traffic lanes and sidewalks that are 5 to 6 meters wide, offering favorable conditions for the new cycling infrastructure.

Experts say it’s long overdue

Transport specialist Le Trung Tinh, chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Passenger Transport Association, emphasized the importance of the project amid the city’s push for sustainable urban development.

He also suggested the city should study successful international models, such as Guangdong Province in China, where public bike stations are abundant and offer the first 30 minutes of use for free. This model has been successful in integrating cycling with public bus routes.

Public bikes losing traction without safe lanes

In 2021, the city partnered with a private investor to pilot a public bike-sharing program in the downtown area, deploying 500 bicycles and 52 docking stations across key streets and transit nodes, including bus stops and Ben Thanh Metro Station.

The bikes, equipped with smart locks and GPS, could be rented via a mobile app for VND5,000 (about $0.20) per 30 minutes or VND10,000 (about $0.40) per hour.

Initially, the system attracted enthusiastic uptake from both locals and tourists, thanks to its environmental benefits and affordability.

However, over time, its appeal has waned. Riders cited the lack of safe infrastructure and the dangers of sharing lanes with speeding cars and motorbikes, especially during extreme heat or heavy traffic.

Many reported feeling unsafe navigating congested streets without dedicated lanes, which discouraged continued use despite the stations being located near key transit hubs.

Experts warn that unless Ho Chi Minh City swiftly implements modern, well-planned bike infrastructure, efforts to encourage green commuting and integrate with metro and bus systems will remain aspirational rather than practical.

Tuan Kiet