The Da Nang Department of Transport has issued a plan to organise passenger transportation services for the Lunar New Year (Tet) and the Spring Festival of the Year of the Snake in 2025.

The Department of Transport requires full mobilisation of vehicles to bring people home for Tet. Photo: THANH LAN

The peak period for passenger transportation during Tet and the Spring Festival runs from January 20, 2025 (21^st day of the 12^th lunar month) to February 7, 2025 (10^th day of the 1^st lunar month).

Passenger transport companies operating fixed routes must develop comprehensive plans for serving customers on their routes, including vehicle lists, reinforcement schedules, GPS and camera access credentials, and details of drivers and onboard staff. These plans must be submitted to bus terminals for ticket sales and passenger notifications.

During the Tet service period, companies are required to frequently inspect vehicle safety and monitor traffic conditions using GPS and cameras. Violations, such as driving under the influence, speeding, deviating from routes, exceeding allowable working hours, and overloading, will be strictly penalised, including driver suspensions. Companies must also register fare adjustments (if applicable) with the department by January 9, 2025 (10^th day of the 12^th lunar month).

Fixed-route buses cannot be used for other transportation purposes, and strict management is required to prevent vehicles from abandoning scheduled routes or overcharging passengers. Companies violating regulations, such as using placeholder contracts for unauthorized trips, will face suspension and removal of operation permits. If there is an unexpected surge in passenger volume on a particular route, additional vehicles from less crowded routes will be redirected. Ticket hoarding, overcharging without issuing proper tickets, and improper handling of passenger reservations will result in penalties, including activity suspension and further reporting to the city authorities.

Enhancing patrols and monitoring of passenger transport activities during Tet. Photo: THANH LAN

Special policies will be in place to support ticket prices for the elderly, disabled, students, and workers. Partnerships with student unions and industrial enterprises will facilitate group ticket sales for students and workers. Health and safety measures, including prohibitions on transporting contraband, counterfeit goods, flammable or explosive materials, or live animals, will be strictly enforced.

For contract-based, tour, bus, and taxi operators, vehicles must meet operational standards and have necessary documentation, including contracts and passenger lists. Unauthorised operations on fixed routes are prohibited. Violations, such as reckless driving or competition for passengers, will be handled promptly. Call centers must remain staffed, and passengers must not be left waiting due to unfulfilled promises.

Bus terminals are required to coordinate with law enforcement to maintain order and safety, assign sufficient staff, and ensure clean and well-decorated facilities. They must also verify vehicle and driver documentation and refuse service to non-compliant vehicles. Passenger information, including schedules, must be made public by January 14, 2025 (15^th day of the 12^th lunar month).

On the Lunar year's final day (Tet Eve, January 29, 2025), measures will be taken to ensure no passengers are left behind due to a lack of tickets or vehicles. The final trips of the year will prioritise accommodating all passengers.

Reported by THANH LAN - Translated by TRUC VY