At a recent seminar titled "Hanoi Bans Gasoline Motorbikes by Hour: Infrastructure and Livelihood Considerations," organized by the Hanoi People's Committee, Deputy Director of the city's Department of Construction Dao Viet Long emphasized that establishing low emission zones is a "comprehensive step" with a long-term roadmap, not a standalone solution.
The transition from gasoline motorbikes to electric ones is the most impactful aspect, affecting millions of people. Therefore, the city must prepare a complete legal framework, support mechanisms, technical infrastructure, and traffic organization plans.
Mr. Long stated that the Department of Construction is finalizing a draft policy to support vehicle conversion, aiming to ensure that citizens do not face difficulties. Additionally, a draft resolution encouraging investment in bus stations and parking lots is being developed. The city is also researching the development of charging stations in residential areas, accompanied by standards and power supply plans to meet the demand for green vehicles.
According to the Deputy Director, the low emission zones will only be effective when synchronized with peripheral parking infrastructure, transfer points, and public transportation systems. Hanoi aims to increase mini electric buses in densely populated small streets and considers the network of 15 urban railway lines, spanning over 600 km, as the "backbone" in reducing personal vehicles.
In response to concerns that the transition is happening too quickly, Mr. Long clarified that the city is not applying a blanket approach but has identified two groups of vehicles that need to transition first, with appropriate support policies for citizens and businesses.
Mr. Long emphasized that these percentages are based on consultations with businesses and related units, allowing the 2026–2030 period for proactive arrangements without requiring simultaneous changes.
Regarding the information about "banning gasoline technology vehicles from July 1, 2026," he noted that this is an incomplete expression. The regulation only applies to replacement or new investment vehicles after this date; vehicles currently in operation, still within their lifespan, and meeting technical standards are not required to transition immediately.
"The city does not set a simultaneous transition to prioritize any vehicle type. The roadmap is designed according to the natural cycle of vehicle replacement, to avoid sudden pressure on citizens and businesses," Mr. Long stated.
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