What’s your opinion of the ban on parking on footpaths?

Vientiane authorities have instructed motorists not to park on pavements and in no-parking areas. Vehicles obstructing footpaths are not only parked illegally but put pedestrians at risk. Vientiane Times asked some local residents for their thoughts on the ruling.

Ms Nit Siamphone, a resident of Xaythany district: I have heard about this and in my view it’s an important issue. It is high time that something was done about this because vehicles that are parked on footpaths are a serious hazard, especially for people with disabilities, people with mobility issues, older people, children, and parents with prams. I urge all drivers to comply with the ruling and to keep sidewalks free, as they are intended for exclusive use by pedestrians.

Ms Mailor, a college student in Chanthabouly district: It’s a fact that most drivers don’t obey the law as many cars are parked on pavements. This is very annoying for me and other people who use footpaths. Parked vehicles force us to walk on the road as cars rush by, which is very dangerous. So it’s good that the authorities are taking steps to address this chronic problem. On another matter, no one has the right to reserve space outside his or her house. Roads are public property and do not belong to a house or shop owner. But while it’s not illegal to park outside someone’s house, it’s a bit inconsiderate.

Mr Saengouthai Phanluang, an official in Sisattanak district: Many times I’ve seen pedestrians forced to walk on roads when there’s lots of traffic. This is particularly a problem in residential areas and around schools as young children tend to be careless and don’t exercise good judgement. Some people have to walk through gardens or on uneven ground, which poses a hazard for those of us who are unsteady on our feet. And many mobility items like wheelchairs or scooters just aren’t designed for off-road conditions. I think this ruling will help to keep footpaths clear, so long as everyone takes notice of it. 

Mr Khamkon, a resident of Hadxaifong district: I agree with this ruling but it will be hard to enforce it. It may be fine to begin with but then things will revert to how they were because drivers just won’t respect this regulation. And there are other factors at play such as poor planning. The number of vehicles increases every year so if we don’t manage the situation properly and enforce regulations it will get even worse in the future. In the meantime, I would like to ask everyone to respect this regulation out of consideration for others.

Ms Fon Siyavanh, an official in Xaythany district: There is a land transport law and traffic regulations about parking but drivers don’t take any notice. The authorities should educate vehicle owners about the nuisance they cause to pedestrians. It cost a lot of money to build many of the footpaths in Vientiane but they are slowly being eroded by inconsiderate drivers, as well as tuk-tuks. But we also need to be smarter about the way we design these places. Things like wider footpaths and wheelstops to prevent vehicle bumpers going over paths would go some way to improving the situation.

By Lamphone Pasanthong
(Latest Update March 12, 2020)