Back in October, Hanoi officially launched a plan to keep a number of streets in the Old Quarter free from vehicles. Even though signs and barriers have been installed, many have ignored the new scheme, driving their motorbikes, cyclos and taxis through the pedestrian-only streets.

The streets in question - Hang Buom, Ma May, Hang Giay, Luong Ngoc Quyen, Ta Hien and Dao Duy – prohibit vehicle traffic every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 7:00pm to 12:00pm during the summer and from 6:00pm to 12pm in the winter.

However, many drivers, especially local residents who live on these streets, have disregarded the new regulations.

To avoid this situation, the Hanoi People’s Committee licensed several parking lots, covering a total area of 648sqm to handle the additional demand for parking.

Apparently locals don’t see parking in these lots as a viable solution.