Car owners flood registration offices in Ho Chi Minh City
Automobiles wait in long lines at a car registration office in Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, on the morning of January 6, 2016.
Many car registration offices in Ho Chi Minh City are being overwhelmed by a large number of applicants who have decided to empty their pockets on new automobiles before the Lunar New Year.
Hundreds of cars lined up for several hours in front of such bureaus for registration.
Some offices have reported a three-fold hike in the number of applicants compared to an average day, whereas others have to temporarily cease accepting new forms.
According to Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper reporters’ observation at a registration office on Hong Ha Street, Tan Binh District, a large number of automobiles had already gathered at the location by 7:30 am on Friday.
As there was no space left on its premises, the registration bureau had to stop receiving further cars.
According to Nguyen Dinh Quan, director of the office, the place has been filled with applicants since Tuesday.
“We have to halt the reception of application forms to prevent newcomers from parking their vehicles outside of the facility while waiting for their turn, which compromises traffic safety and is against traffic regulations,” Quoc stated.
Many residents decided to purchase new cars for use for their festive activities during the Lunar New Year, leading to this crowding, the director explained.
The Lunar New Year, or Tet, falls on January 28, with preparations and celebrations taking place one week before and after the date.
Other registration offices in District 11 and Thu Duc District faced similar problems as the number of vehicles coming to these facilities was many times higher than normal days.
According to some car owners, they arrived at as early as 6:00 am and were still unable to complete the registration procedures hours later.
