Reader Nam Nguyen Hoang commented: “I fully support this directive. We hope Hanoi will soon have a smart public transportation network to replace gas-powered motorbikes. Commuting daily is currently too difficult.”

Air quality statistics consistently rank Hanoi among the most polluted cities globally. Reader Thanh Phuc remarked, “Ten million residents in the capital are suffering the consequences of pollution - shorter lifespans, more diseases. I support banning gasoline motorbikes to make Hanoi cleaner and healthier, and to improve its image in the eyes of international visitors.”

Agreeing with this view, reader Ly Son emphasized persistence: “We must be determined and follow through step by step. If we have adequate public transport, I believe many will willingly give up their gas bikes.”

Aspiring toward Vietnam’s Net Zero goals, Tram Nguyen shared: “This policy is necessary and will benefit society in the long run. I’ve used an electric bike for three years now - it’s much more convenient, no hot exhaust pipes, and it’s quiet and light.”

Many believe electric vehicles are now ready to take over. Nguyen Nam explained: “Electric bikes today offer excellent models, with battery ranges of over 100 kilometers and lower running costs. Charging costs only a fraction of gasoline expenses, plus there's less maintenance - no oil changes. They're also quieter, safer with anti-theft features, and eliminate late-night engine noise in small alleys.”

Others stressed the importance of a clear transition plan. Vinh Le suggested: “Delays will only worsen pollution. I support early implementation, but there must be a clear roadmap and support policies. At least five years of preparation are needed for both residents and infrastructure to adapt.”

Thanh Huy commented: “We must change. With challenge comes innovation. This is not just about air pollution, but also noise and disease. The government has had this roadmap for years - now is the time for collective action.”

However, concerns about infrastructure readiness persist. One reader noted: “Our infrastructure isn’t ready. Public transport is limited, the metro system is small, buses are not widespread, and EV charging stations are nearly nonexistent. We must invest in comprehensive infrastructure, control fine dust, support gradual vehicle conversion, focus on electric buses, and expand metro lines before aiming for a city free of gasoline vehicles.”

Another reader added: “The gasoline motorbike ban in central Hanoi should not be delayed further. Prolonging this only worsens pollution. I fully support early enforcement - provided there’s a clear plan and reasonable support like subsidies for EV conversion and public charging stations compatible with all EV brands.”

Expert opinions:

Speaking to VietNamNet, Dr. Hoang Duong Tung, Chairman of the Vietnam Clean Air Network, praised the government's strong commitment to pollution reduction.

He noted that the time between now and July 1, 2026, is limited, urging Hanoi to act quickly, enhance public communication, and develop citizen support policies. In addition to business-led vehicle exchange programs, the state should offer direct subsidies to residents.

Dr. Tung also emphasized the need for Hanoi to rapidly develop public EV charging infrastructure to meet growing demand while ensuring safety. In parallel, significant investment in public transport - metro lines and electric buses - will be critical to reducing pollution and encouraging people to shift from private vehicles.

Former National Assembly Delegate and Associate Professor Dr. Bui Thi An stressed that in order for the ban to work without disrupting daily life, Hanoi must invest in EV charging stations, promote green public transport, and create convenient commuting conditions.

Meanwhile, Dr. Khuong Kim Tao, former Deputy Chief of the National Traffic Safety Committee Office, affirmed that switching from gasoline to electric vehicles is vital for reducing pollution and improving road safety. However, he warned that the biggest challenge lies in the lack of charging infrastructure. Most people charge at home, which poses fire risks and power overload issues - especially in apartment complexes.

He stressed the importance of a holistic approach: policy, infrastructure, and public awareness must evolve together to ensure a safe and effective transition.

Y Nhuy