"Optimizing" traffic signals during rush hour along National Highway 51

In the context of rapid urbanization, traffic congestion at intersections along National Highway 51 has become a major challenge.

To address this situation, Dong Nai has implemented various solutions, particularly reviewing and adjusting the traffic light system at key intersections to optimize vehicle flow, ensuring smooth and safe circulation on arterial roads.

Reviewing traffic lights, reducing congestion

The roundabout at Gate 11 (the intersection of Bui Van Hoa Street and Vo Nguyen Giap Street, located in Long Hung ward and Phuoc Tan ward) is one of the frequent "bottlenecks," especially during rush hours and on holidays when traffic from National Highway 51 and branch roads converges at the same time.

Vehicles move smoothly through the intersection of National Highway 51 and Vo Nguyen Giap Street (Long Hung Ward). Photo: Dang Tung

According to the Dong Nai Traffic Safety Committee, to address the situation, authorities have adjusted the traffic light timing by extending the green-light duration to facilitate smoother straight-through traffic flow. At the same time, a series of traffic reorganization measures were implemented, including the partial removal of the roundabout's traffic island, repainting channelization lines for left-turn lanes, dismantling guiding islands, and adding new road markings and traffic signs. These adjustments have expanded circulation space and significantly reduced conflicts between traffic flows.

Beyond Gate 11 roundabout, the traffic light system along National Highway 51 has also been reviewed in a synchronized manner. This arterial route currently has 21 traffic light posts, with some congestion-prone spots already adjusted in time.

According to the Department of Construction (DoC), the intersection of National Highway 51 - Ngo Quyen Street (Km2+200, Long Hung Ward) had its green light extended from 60 seconds to 70 seconds. The junction of National Highway 51 - Bui Van Hoa Street (Km5+220, Phuoc Tan ward) increased the green light from 39 seconds to 75 seconds. These adjustments proved effective, easing rush-hour congestion and facilitating smoother movement for both residents and businesses.

In addition, at several locations along Long Thanh and An Phuoc communes, following on-site surveys and consultations with traffic police and relevant agencies, green light durations at certain intersections were adjusted to between 56 and 61 seconds. These include Km19+200, Km20+200, Km20+900, and Km21+500. However, no further adjustments were made, as extending green lights any longer would push red-light times on side roads beyond 100 seconds, leading to localized congestion.

Operation aligned with traffic conditions

According to the Dong Nai Traffic Police Department, in the first eight months of 2025, authorities coordinated with the Department of Construction and local commune and ward police to survey and take over 592 traffic light clusters across the province,  507 of which were in the former Dong Nai area and 85 in the former Binh Phuoc area. This undertaking was a key step toward standardizing and improving management efficiency following the administrative unit reorganization.

Lieutenant Colonel Tran Trong Thuy, Head of the Dong Nai Traffic Police Department, Dong Nai Provincial Police, said: To ensure smooth operation, Dong Nai Provincial Police organized training courses for 44 traffic police officers, equipping them with skills to operate, manage, and control traffic lights. As a result, management capacity has become more professional, ensuring the system operates flexibly and in line with real traffic conditions.

At the same time, the traffic police have also developed traffic diversion plans and deployed forces to direct traffic at key intersections. In the first 8 months of 2025, 37 recommendations were submitted to competent agencies to resolve inadequacies in traffic organization and promptly address high-risk accident spots.

Another notable point is that the DoC has worked with Road Management Zone IV (Vietnam Road Administration) and local authorities to conduct on-site inspections and update road signs to match the administrative unit changes after the merger.

According to the Dong Nai People's Committee, the Department of Construction recently coordinated with Road Management Zone IV (under the Vietnam Road Administration) and relevant communes, wards, and agencies to conduct field inspections aimed at updating and adjusting road signage information in accordance with administrative boundary changes at the provincial and commune levels. These updates were implemented on provincial roads, national highways, and expressways running through Dong Nai.

The review and adjustment of the traffic light system at key intersections has not only brought immediate results in reducing congestion but also opened a new direction for traffic management in Dong Nai. With a systematic, scientific approach and coordinated efforts across sectors, the province is gradually building a safe and seamless traffic system that meets socio-economic development requirements in the new phase.

By: Dang Tung

Translated by: Minh Hanh - Minho