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Authorities in Luang Prabang have begun enforcing new regulations on vehicle use, road access and parking to ensure orderliness within the town’s World Heritage Site.
(KPL) Authorities in Luang Prabang have begun enforcing new regulations on vehicle use, road access and parking to ensure orderliness within the town’s World Heritage Site.
The measures are being implemented by the Luang Prabang District Office of Public Works and Transport in coordination with traffic police from the Luang Prabang District Public Security Command.
Khammy Keovinthavong, Head of the Traffic Police Division, told provincial media on March 11 that authorities have been working with relevant sectors, including government offices, business operators, transport associations, tour companies, village authorities and the general public, to raise awareness and ensure compliance with the regulations.
Under the new rules, vans are allowed to travel along the Khan River and Mekong River roads and may stop only at designated areas to pick up or drop off passengers for no more than five minutes. Long-term parking is prohibited. Vehicles requiring longer parking must use designated locations such as the That Luang field or other approved areas.
Cargo vehicles may stop temporarily for goods delivery for no more than 10–15 minutes.
Vans, passenger vehicles, tuk-tuks and jumbo vehicles are prohibited from entering the central section of Sisavangvong Road, from the Honsae intersection to the Pak Khan intersection, except for authorized vehicles.
Vehicles dropping off visitors for the morning alms-giving ceremony may park temporarily along the Khan and Mekong river roads but must leave the area before 7:00 a.m.
All vehicles are also prohibited from travelling on the road section from the Mae pier intersection to the Honsae four-way intersection. Motorcycles, electric motorbikes and bicycles are not allowed to park on central town roads or on sidewalks along Sisavangvong Road. Instead, they must park in designated areas along the river roads or other permitted locations.
Authorities have also introduced penalties for violations. Fines range from 100,000 kip for bicycles and electric motorbikes to 1,000,000 kip for vans and cars for repeated offences. Vehicles committing more than three violations may face doubled fines, temporary confiscation of driving licences for 3–6 months, or vehicle impoundment in serious cases.
Authorities say the regulations aim to improve traffic order, protect the heritage environment and enhance tourism management in Luang Prabang.
KPL
