HÀ NỘI - Hà Nội has taken a big step towards getting back to normal as the capital’s famous walking street reopened to pedestrians from last night.

Families and tourists flocked to Hoan Kiem Lake to enjoy the sights and sounds… traffic free!

In fact the only vehicles on the road were toy cars driven by excited children who have waited almost a year to enjoy this thrill.

Artist Đỗ Đức Toàn was finally back at his easel and painting portraits.

“Finally we can go back to the normal, the pre-pandemic time,” he said. “People resume normal activities. I am so happy to see this.”

Tourist Phạm Ngọc Hương was visiting the capital from Đà Nẵng.

She said: “I arrived Friday afternoon. I have just had a stroll around Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Local people are very friendly, the area is safe and in order. I also enjoy the atmosphere.”

There were plenty of police and security guards mingling with the visitors to make sure everything went off without a hitch.

Bùi Văn Đăng of Hoàn Kiếm District Police said it was their job to make sure everyone enjoyed their evening.

“We mobilise all forces to work tonight,” he said.

“We have district police, local security officers cooperate with the city police to ensure security and order for this area and ensure people enjoy being here in this walking area.”

The pedestrian zone will remain in play until Sunday evening, and on weekends to follow, just the same as it was before the pandemic. - VNS