ຂປລ
Traffic congestion across Vientiane Capital has worsened due to a combination of malfunctioning traffic lights, poor roadside parking practices, traffic violations, inadequate drainage during heavy rain, and the growing number of vehicles on the roads.
Speaking on July 14, Colonel Sangkham Phommalath, Head of the Traffic Police Division under the Vientiane Capital Police Command, said congestion has persisted despite the school holiday period. Heavy rainfall has aggravated the situation by causing flooding at several locations and disrupting traffic signal systems.
According to the Traffic Police Division, Vientiane has 68 signalized intersections. Of these, 39 are operating normally, 17 are out of service, and 12 are experiencing technical faults, including signals that flash on one side or display conflicting red and green lights simultaneously.
Colonel Sangkham also noted that the rapid increase in vehicles, including electric motorcycles and three-wheelers operating without license plates, has added pressure to the city's road network. Illegal roadside parking, combined with insufficient parking facilities at shops and restaurants, has further obstructed traffic flow. He added that some motorists continue to disregard traffic regulations, contributing to congestion.
To address the problem, the Traffic Police Division, in coordination with district traffic units, has deployed additional officers to manage traffic, particularly during peak hours. Authorities are also working with relevant agencies to repair defective traffic lights, improve drainage systems, strengthen public awareness campaigns on road safety, and enforce traffic laws more strictly.
Colonel Sangkham urged all motorists to comply with traffic regulations, avoid illegal parking, and cooperate with authorities to ease congestion and improve road safety in the capital.
KPL
