Footpath law clears way for walkers

The footpath in Hang Can Street in Ha Noi is occupied by food vendors. Under a proposal by the Ministry of Transport, sidewalks could be used for non-traffic purposes providing that 1.5m is left for pedestrians. — VNS Photo Doan Tung

HA NOI — The use of footpaths for non-traffic purposes should be allowed, providing 1.5m is kept clear for pedestrians, the Ministry of Transport has suggested.

The proposal is part of a draft decree on management and use of roads and footpaths nation-wide which is now open for public discussion and comment.

The draft also proposes the limited use of roads and footpaths for funerals, wedding receptions, construction materials and parking for festivals, cultural activities and public campaigns.

However, encroachment on highways and single-lane roads would not be allowed, according to the draft.

The move to draft a law followed an inspection early this month of the use of footpaths in Ha Noi and HCM City.

Deputy chief inspector of the ministry Thach Nhu Sy said limited and overlapping legal documents on the use of footpaths and roads were among reasons for violations in the two cities.

"The case of banning the use of a pavement in a certain street and then allowing it again after a short time contributes to the increase of violations as it fails to create the habit for locals," Sy said.

Moreover, the responsibility for management of footpaths should be assigned to an authorised agency instead of different authorities, he said, adding that many streets in Ha Noi were still under the control of both the transport department and district authorities. — VNS