VietNamNet Bridge – Implementing regulations on traffic safety and order topped the agenda of the eighth session of the National Assembly Standing Committee in Hanoi on April 24.

Transport Minister Ho Nghia Dung.

Transport Minister Ho Nghia Dung spoke about the helmet-wearing regulation as an noteworthy achievement, saying it has proved successful in reducing the risk of deaths or severe head injuries caused by traffic accidents. The rate of motorbike riders wearing helmets has reached more than 99 percent.

The number of traffic accidents in the first quarter of this year showed an 18.4 percent reduction over the same period in 2007 and fatality rates dropped 14.9 percent, the minister reported.

However, many deputies pointed out problems emerging during the regulation’s implementation, particularly poor quality helmets and tardy inspections by authorised agencies. They proposed law makers provide adequate guidance to effective adopt and carry out regulations.

A hot issue of the discussion was traffic police corruption and the majority of deputies asked for tighter control and strict handling of violators to earn more trust from the public.

The NA’s Judiciary Committee Head Nguyen Van Thuan proposed the government seek measures to solve traffic congestion, an urgent problem facing big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

The development of public transportation also came under review, and deputies said policy makers must focus on intensifying traffic safety and order for people with disabilities. There are currently 4.5-5 million disabled people living in Vietnam.

Deputy NA Chairman Uong Chu Luu reported that the number of traffic accidents are increasing rapidly in some areas and outlined the need to build and upgrade roads to reduce the flow of vehicles on national highways.

Deputy Nguyen Thi Bach Mai from southern Tay Ninh Province said it is necessary to have a long-term master plan to develop the national traffic system, which is considered an important basis of socio-economic development.

(Source: VNA)