Hanoi Southern Gateway Surprisingly Clear on Last Day of Tet Holiday

Traveling back to the capital after a long holiday usually means hours of gridlock, but the Lunar New Year of 2024 told a different story for Hanoi's southern entrance. On the afternoon of February 14th, which marked the final day of the Tet break, the Phap Van - Cau Gie expressway remained unexpectedly clear. Typically a notorious hotspot for traffic jams, the Phap Van toll station saw vehicles moving freely without the usual congestion that haunts travelers every year.

By 5:00 PM, during what is normally the peak rush hour, the flow of traffic remained steady. This phenomenon was a welcome surprise for thousands of residents returning to the city to resume work. Observations at the scene showed that cars and passenger buses were able to pass through the electronic toll collection lanes without stopping. The absence of long queues, which often stretch for kilometers during this period, allowed for a much more relaxed journey for those coming from southern provinces like Ha Nam, Nam Dinh, and Ninh Binh.

Despite the smooth traffic flow, the Traffic Police Department maintained a strong presence. Officers were stationed at key junctions along the Phap Van - Cau Gie route to regulate the flow and prevent any potential bottlenecks. Their proactive approach included diverting some vehicles into the frontage roads to reduce pressure on the main expressway terminus. According to the authorities, these units have been on duty throughout the holiday season—before, during, and after Tet—to ensure that the transition back to urban life is as safe and seamless as possible.

While the main highway was clear, the volume of vehicles naturally increased as they reached the inner-city junctions. At the end of the expressway, where it meets the Ring Road 3 (Vành Đai 3), the density of cars was higher, yet movement remained fluid. Even at the Phap Van - Ngoc Hoi intersection, a historically difficult spot, the traffic lights only caused minor delays, with queues rarely exceeding 500 meters. The favorable weather conditions also contributed to the positive atmosphere, making the long drive back home much less exhausting for families carrying luggage and local specialties from their hometowns. This year's traffic management serves as a successful example of how coordination and early planning can significantly improve the travel experience during major national holidays.

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