A new traffic system designed to accommodate the future Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) caused significant confusion for Vientiane commuters this morning.
With long queues and a sense of disarray, the capital’s drivers are struggling to adjust to the changes implemented on 28 February.
However, a new guidance phase is helping ease the transition.
The Division of Traffic Management in Chanthabuly district has rolled out a three-month educational project aimed at familiarizing residents with new traffic regulations on major roads, including Khounboulom, Samsenthai, and Donchanh roads, where BRT traffic will soon be integrated.
While the authorities have yet to announce the start date for BRT services, Bounla Vongvinay, Deputy Director of the Traffic Management Division, confirmed that the current priority is education rather than fines.
“There will be no fines for those who are still confused or unable to follow the new rules,” Bounla said.
The changes have led to adjustments such as converting wide, one-way streets into narrower two-way lanes, particularly along the riverside areas.
These new systems are creating significant delays, with some commuters reporting that their journeys have doubled in time.
The public response on social media echoed similar concerns, with many sharing photos of traffic gridlocks.
To assist, the police have deployed several teams, a total of 145 people, to guide drivers during peak hours. Officers are rotating shifts during the morning rush, from 8:00 to 9:30 AM, and evening rush, from 3:30 to 6:30 PM, using loudspeakers to announce changes in real time and help manage the traffic flow.
Yet, the biggest challenge, according to Bounla, is parking, especially near BRT lanes.
Authorities are urging commuters not to park on the roadside, particularly along Mixay Road, and to only use designated parking spaces.
With the support from the police and patience from the public, the city is on track to make commuting smoother and more efficient.
