At a thematic session of the Hanoi People’s Council on May 11, the issue was not included among the resolutions submitted for approval.

According to Tran The Cuong, vice chairman of the Hanoi People’s Council, three agenda items were removed from consideration at the session, including the low-emission zone proposal, because related documents and draft resolutions had not yet met the required conditions for review and approval.

The proposal, previously submitted by the Hanoi People’s Committee, aimed to pilot a low-emission zone within the Ring Road 1 area starting from July 1, 2026.

The pilot area would cover the core section of Hoan Kiem ward, spanning around 0.5 square kilometers and including several major streets such as Trang Tien, Hang Khay, Le Thai To, Hang Dao, Hang Ngang, Ma May, Hang Bac and Ly Thai To.

Under the drafted plan, petrol-powered motorbikes could face restrictions during certain hours, particularly on weekends and between 6 p.m. and midnight, with the scope expected to gradually expand through 2029.

Some categories of commercial vehicles, including ride-hailing motorbikes, were also expected to face tighter operating regulations within the proposed zone.

Officials said further work is needed to improve the legal framework, supporting data and practical feasibility of the policy before it can be formally adopted.

The proposal forms part of Hanoi’s broader strategy to establish low-emission zones aimed at reducing air pollution in central urban areas, limiting high-emission vehicles and encouraging a transition toward greener transportation.

Although the proposal was not approved at this session, Hanoi authorities said the city’s overall direction remains unchanged. Officials still plan to pilot low-emission zones in Hoan Kiem ward before gradually expanding the model to other areas within Ring Road 1 in later phases.

For now, traffic activities in Hoan Kiem continue under existing regulations, with no immediate restrictions imposed on petrol-powered motorbikes.

The city is continuing to study emission reduction measures as part of its long-term efforts to improve air quality and promote sustainable urban transport, though concrete policies will require further review before implementation.

Hanoi pilots low-emission zones with flexible roadmap for vehicles

VOV.VN - Hanoi has drafted a phased pilot of low-emission zones (LEZ) within its inner areas, adopting a gradual and flexible approach aimed at reducing pollution while minimising disruption to residents’ daily mobility.