Ho Chi Minh City is gearing up for a significant celebration, and as part of the preparations, the local authorities have announced major traffic restrictions in the city center. Effective from 6 PM to 8 PM on April 18, 2025, all vehicles and pedestrians will face restrictions on several key routes, as the city conducts rehearsals for the upcoming April 30th celebration.
The restrictions will apply to everyone, except for security personnel and vehicles displaying official badges who are directly involved in ensuring safety during the event. Following the initial two-hour restriction, a complete ban on all movement of people and vehicles will be enforced from 8 PM on April 18 until 1 AM on April 19, 2025. This measure aims to facilitate a smooth rehearsal for the upcoming festivities.
According to the Ho Chi Minh City Traffic Police Department, individuals and organizations are permitted to walk home or to hotels for lodging during the restricted hours, provided they have proper identification. Those needing to travel for urgent work are also allowed to use designated routes within the restricted area. However, vehicles will not be allowed into the established security zones, and residents are advised to arrange parking in advance before barriers are set up.
For those looking to navigate around the restrictions, alternative routes have been provided. Travelers from Thu Duc City can use several options to reach districts 1, 5, 6, 10, Binh Tan, and Binh Chanh. For instance, one route includes traveling via Võ Nguyên Giáp and Mai Chí Thọ to access the Saigon River tunnel and then continuing through Võ Văn Kiệt to reach their destinations. Other routes include various combinations of major thoroughfares to facilitate movement while avoiding the restricted zones.
Additionally, the Traffic Police Department has proposed that motorcycles and motorbikes be allowed to pass through the Thu Thiem Tunnel during the specified hours, from 6 PM on April 18 to 1 AM on April 19. This decision aims to ease congestion and provide a viable option for those who need to travel during the restrictions.
Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to utilize public transportation options such as buses and the metro to navigate the city during this period. The city has set up 20 LED screens along seven major roads, including Le Duan and Nguyen Hue, allowing people to watch the celebration rehearsal from a distance.
The Traffic Police have emphasized the importance of following their guidelines and the instructions of traffic control personnel to minimize disruptions to daily life. They are committed to adjusting traffic management strategies as needed to ensure public safety and ease of movement.
As the city prepares for this grand event, officials are urging everyone to plan their journeys accordingly and to stay informed about the latest traffic updates. The rehearsals for the April 30th celebration are not only a crucial part of the festivities but also a demonstration of the city's commitment to safety and organization during large-scale events.
In summary, the traffic restrictions in Ho Chi Minh City are aimed at ensuring a successful rehearsal for the upcoming April 30th celebration. Residents are advised to stay informed, utilize alternative routes, and consider public transport to navigate the city during this busy period. The authorities are working diligently to ensure that the celebration goes off without a hitch, and community cooperation is key to achieving that goal.
