Traffic police in Nghe An province are conducting simultaneous alcohol breath tests starting from noon on the first day of Tet (Lunar New Year).
From 10:00 AM on February 17th (the first day of the Lunar New Year, Year of the Horse), the Traffic Police force of Nghe An province simultaneously launched a campaign to inspect and handle drunk driving violations throughout the province. In the context of increased traffic volume and the risk of traffic accidents at the beginning of the year, the operation was implemented decisively and continuously throughout the holiday with the spirit of "no forbidden zones, no exceptions, no excuses for avoiding the holiday."
The peak of the inspection period began on the morning of the first day of Tet (Lunar New Year), and the people expressed their support.
According to the plan for ensuring traffic order and safety during the Lunar New Year (Year of the Horse) and other major festivals in early 2026, following the directives of the Traffic Police Department (Ministry of Public Security), traffic police forces nationwide are on 100% standby. Based on the Tet holiday schedule for workers from February 14th to February 22nd, the peak period for ensuring traffic safety will be implemented continuously and extended for two days before and after the holiday.
On the morning of the first day of Tet (Lunar New Year), on several roads in the former Vinh City area and national highways passing through Nghe An province, authorities set up checkpoints to check for alcohol levels. The control activities were carried out openly, according to proper procedures, ensuring the safety of road users.
Mr. Duong Sy D. (residing in Thanh Vinh ward) said: "Tet is a time for family reunions and celebrations, so the consumption of alcohol is unavoidable. I think the traffic police checking vehicles right from the morning of the first day of Tet is very necessary. Strict enforcement will make people more aware and prevent unfortunate accidents at the beginning of the year."
Ms. Nguyen Thi H. (residing in Nghi Loc commune) also expressed her agreement: “Initially, I thought that on the first day of the Lunar New Year, the authorities would be more lenient, but seeing such serious inspections makes me feel much more at ease. Anyone who has drunk alcohol should proactively call a taxi or ask a relative to drive them; it's safer for themselves and avoids breaking the law.”
According to observations, in addition to showing support, the majority of people, when inspected, complied seriously and cooperated with the authorities.
"There are no forbidden areas, no exceptions."
During the peak period before, during, and after Tet (Lunar New Year), the traffic police force of Nghe An province maintained regular and continuous patrols and inspections on key routes and areas. Traffic police teams and stations coordinated with ward and commune police to organize patrols according to plan, focusing on areas with restaurants, eateries, entertainment venues; national highways, provincial roads, inter-commune roads, and locations where traffic accidents frequently occur.
The task forces flexibly change the time and location of inspections to prevent violators from evading them. The alcohol testing process is carried out rigorously, and all violations are strictly dealt with according to the law.
The Lunar New Year holiday is a time when travel demand increases, and many celebrations and gatherings take place, leading to a higher risk of traffic accidents, especially those involving alcohol.
Therefore, controlling alcohol levels continues to be identified as a top priority. Traffic police will intensify inspections on all routes and areas; resolutely and strictly handle violations with the spirit of no forbidden zones, no exceptions, and without hesitation, in order to deter and prevent future offenses.
Lieutenant Colonel Hoang Manh Hung – Deputy Head of the Traffic Police Department, Nghe An Provincial Police
Besides checking blood alcohol levels, authorities are focusing on handling violations such as: driving under the influence of drugs; speeding; driving in the wrong lane; changing lanes without signaling; overloading or oversized cargo; and violations of transportation business regulations such as picking up and dropping off passengers illegally, carrying more passengers than allowed, and entrusting vehicles to unqualified drivers.
Illegal street racing, reckless driving, and resisting law enforcement will also be dealt with severely according to regulations.
Traffic police advise people to raise their awareness and voluntarily comply with traffic laws and regulations; absolutely refrain from driving after consuming alcohol; and proactively choose safe travel options during Tet to ensure safety for themselves, their families, and the community.
