Da Nang cracks down on commercial, personal sidewalk use

Da Nang has officially launched a sweeping urban management initiative designed to reclaim its sidewalks for pedestrians and establish a more orderly city landscape. The Da Nang People’s Committee recently unveiled this comprehensive plan, which centers on a total ban on commercial activities on public walkways. This includes the removal of movable signs, unauthorized street markets, and even private decorative items like potted plants and statues that currently obstruct foot traffic.

To ensure the new regulations are practical and consistent, the city has implemented a standardized demarcation system based on sidewalk width. For narrow sidewalks under four meters, the 1.5 meters closest to buildings are strictly reserved for pedestrians, with any remaining outer space used for motorbike parking.

On medium-sized sidewalks measuring between four and six meters, two meters along the curb are designated for motorbikes, leaving the inner section for pedestrians. For wider sidewalks over six meters, up to 3.5 meters along the curb can be utilized for parking. City officials noted that these boundaries can be flexibly adjusted if trees or utility poles obstruct the path, ensuring continuous passage.

The initiative also tightens broader traffic and advertising rules. Motorbikes must now be arranged in neat, designated lines, and passenger vehicles are restricted to specific pick-up and drop-off points to prevent congestion. Furthermore, the city has banned the hanging or painting of advertisements on utility poles, trees, and traffic signals to reduce visual clutter and maintain a clean environment.

The rollout is structured into three distinct phases to ensure long-term compliance. The current initial phase, running through March 31, focuses on public awareness and encouraging residents to voluntarily clear their encroachments. During this time, local authorities are hosting ceremonies and establishing proper garbage collection points to set a new standard for cleanliness.

The second phase, ending April 30, will involve intensive citywide inspections and the mobilization of enforcement equipment to crack down on deliberate violations. Finally, the third phase will transition into regular patrols and inspections to prevent the return of illegal street-side businesses and ensure sustainable urban order.

Recognizing the impact on thousands of small traders and street vendors, the city administration is placing a high level of accountability on local leadership. Ward and commune chairpersons will be held personally responsible if violations persist within their jurisdictions, with strict penalties promised for officials who fail to enforce the new standards.

By prioritizing a "pedestrians first" approach, Da Nang officials hope to foster better civic habits and enhance the city's appeal as a premier destination. The ultimate goal is to boost the service economy and tourism by creating a tidy, attractive, and walkable urban environment for both residents and visitors.