In recent days, Hanoi streets have suddenly become more crowded during rush hours despite the fact that the social distancing period has not yet come to an end. In order to remedy the situation, six interdisciplinary law enforcement teams consisting of traffic, public security, and mobile police were set up to enforce the No.17 Directive of the Hanoi People’s Committee on imposing social distancing rules in the city.   

The forces will patrol main traffic routes. They are empowered to stop people in traffic and inquiring them about their destination and the purpose of their trip. Drivers without a valid reason will be fined.

When the Covid-19 pandemic broke out again, Hanoians entered the second phase of social distancing, starting from July 14. People are urged to stay at home and are only allowed to leave homes in absolutely necessary cases.

After 15 days of social distancing rules, Hanoi continues to extend them until August 23. However, some streets have shown signs of being crowded again in recent days.

Nguyen Luong Bang Street, Dong Da District was busy on August 17.

According to Directive 17, people are only allowed to go out in the following cases: acquiring food and medicine; for medical examination and treatment, vaccination, and other emergencies; performing essential duties including working at agencies, offices, factories, production facilities providing services and essential goods that are allowed to operate.

The Interdisciplinary police teams started their work at 3pm on August 16. They will patrol the main streets in 12 urban districts of Hanoi city including Hoan Kiem, Ba Dinh, Tay Ho, Long Bien, Cau Giay, among others.

Drivers once stopped by the police must present their travel permit, identification, and other documents necessary to show that they are on the street for a legitimate purpose.

The majority of drivers have legitimate reasons to go out.

However, there are also several citizens who violated the city directive and went out on unnecessary business.