What should be done to tackle traffic jams?

Traffic jams are an inherent part of city life. Congestion is most common around schools, markets and hospitals, especially in the rush hour. Part of the problem is poor city planning and the fact that driving conditions have not kept pace with urban development. Vientiane Times asked for people’s thoughts on ways to reduce congestion and how to deal with crowded streets. 

Ms Oudone Vongvichit, a resident of Vientiane: Vientiane is the capital so of course the number of vehicles on the roads increases every year and we have to expect a certain amount of congestion. If we’re serious about resolving this issue, we should leave home early in the morning to get to school or work. In the rainy season it’s quite difficult for children going to school, especially for those riding bicycles and motorcycles. We should all be careful and considerate and not try to push in front of other vehicles when on a busy street, at a roundabout, or waiting at crossroads. People who drive cars should be careful when it rains and remember to drive more slowly than usual.
 
Mr Phoutthavong Khamsingsavath, a government official in Xaysettha district, Vientiane: All motorists should be careful when passing by markets, hospitals and schools because these areas are very crowded and the risk of an accident is higher. In addition, I’d like to ask drivers to stop when they see schoolchildren or university students waiting to cross the road. Another problem is that most drivers don’t pay attention to safety measures, such as wearing a helmet or using a seatbelt. I think all drivers should pay greater attention to their safety to lower the risk of accidents. And students should be careful when crossing a road and should try to use only zebra crossings.

Ms Phonthip, an employee in Chanthabouly district, Vientiane: I have seen many youngsters under the age of 15 driving a car or riding a motorbike. I’m not sure whether they have a licence but sometimes I see them racing and driving recklessly. This creates a serious risk of accidents and teenagers don’t respect the traffic rules. I know that some parents don’t have time to take their children to school but they should consider their responsibilities and the safety of their children before allowing them to drive. The best way would be for schools to provide transport, or for students to use public transport. Meanwhile, the police should strictly enforce the law and stop and fine anyone they see driving dangerously or inconsiderately.
 
Mr Somphone, a government official in Xaythany district, Vientiane: As we all know, the number of vehicles increases every year and I’m worried about the safety of children when they have to cross a road. Some schools have traffic police or security guards to help, which is very good, but many schools don’t have such employees. I think it’s very important for schools located near main roads to have special staff to help children cross the road safely. If this were the case, parents wouldn’t have to take their children across the road by themselves and could park on the roadside for a short while to drop off their children. 
 
Ms Buavone Latanasack, a resident of Luang Prabang province: It’s normal for cities and urban areas to face this problem. I think it’s quite hard to resolve this issue because most drivers still don’t respect the traffic regulations. Even though the authorities repeatedly try to educate road users about safe driving, the number of problems and accidents seems to increase. At the same time, I urge students and their parents to pay more attention to the traffic regulations. They shouldn’t just consider their own needs, but should act considerately and give priority to children for safety’s sake.  

By Lamphone Pasanthong
(Latest Update July 6, 2022)