Sidewalk and roadway encroachment in Ho Chi Minh City remains unresolved, with numerous areas across the city becoming hotspots resembling busy markets.

After Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper published an article on slack sidewalk management in Ho Chi Minh City, readers voiced concerns, sharing additional hotspots where sidewalks were overtaken. 

Many are calling on local authorities to step in and enforce the rules more effectively.

Reader Ana complained that two eateries selling fried rice and stir-fried noodles on No Trang Long Street in Binh Thanh District not only set up tables and chairs spilling onto the sidewalk, but also use the roadbed as a parking lot during peak hours.

A similar situation was seen at the entrance to Alley 105 on Hoang Hoa Tham Street in Binh Thanh District, where a seafood eatery occupied the alley entrance with tables and chairs, blocking pedestrian access.

Reader Vo Anh Thu shared that along Le Quang Sung Street in District 6, one-third of the sidewalk was overtaken by household businesses, and the roadbed itself was severely encroached upon.

Every evening, the sidewalks along Le Van Tho Street in Go Vap District are covered with tables, motorcycles, and LED signage, forcing pedestrians to walk on the roadbed, said Huy Hoang.

Not only are sidewalks being overtaken, but many roadbeds have also been transformed into spontaneous markets.

Reader Bnmljd expressed his frustration that at the intersection of 627A Ha Huy Giap Street in District 12, numerous stalls selling roasted pork, sausages, and fresh meat line the streets. 

The vendors not only occupy the sidewalk, but also use loudspeakers to advertise their products throughout the day.

Another reader, Nguyen Hung Cuong, pointed out that many vendors used sidewalks along Le Van Duyet Street in Binh Thanh District as kitchens or drying yards for their goods.

Reader HV described a situation on Street No. 17 in District 7, where street vendors overflowed onto the road, creating a market-like atmosphere. 

“When vehicles honk to ask for space, they are often met with insults and glares from the vendors,” the reader said.

Many other readers have also reported severe sidewalk encroachment at informal markets on Tan My Street in District 7, in Binh Thanh District, and in busy areas in the city center like Nguyen Trai and Ly Tu Trong Streets in District 1, where both sidewalks and roadbeds are overtaken.

Need for sustainable solutions

In response to the widespread encroachment, reader Nguyen suggested that officials only need to walk around to observe the chaotic situation so that they could adopt effective solutions to the issues.

Reader Sam expressed hope that local authorities would strictly enforce the directives from the municipal administration and take strong action to ensure that these violations do not recur.

According to many readers, solutions should be more practical and go beyond simply imposing fines. It is crucial to consider the livelihoods of those involved.

Reader Vu Tuan proposed that the city could designate specific areas for street vendors and small businesses, limiting sidewalk encroachment. 

Models like night markets or food streets could be introduced, but they should be carefully planned to prevent traffic congestion.

Additionally, stricter enforcement of regulations is needed to ensure long-term order.

Local authorities must not only crack down in waves, but also establish a robust monitoring system with clear responsibilities assigned to each unit.

Reader COCC stressed that residents must take responsibility for maintaining the intended use of sidewalks, keeping them orderly, and preventing further encroachments.

Businesses that use loudspeakers or sell products of unclear origin should face penalties.

Many readers expressed hope that local authorities would take firm and practical steps to reclaim sidewalks for pedestrians, enhance the city's appearance, and ensure proper traffic order.

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