Traffic Police to Become Tourist Guides as Lien Khuong Airport Closes
A New Role for Da Lat's Finest
As Lien Khuong Airport prepares for temporary closure for repairs, Đà Lạt officials are proposing an innovative solution to help manage the expected surge in road traffic: transforming traffic police into friendly tourist guides.
According to Thanh Niên, Dang Duc Hiep, Party Secretary of Xuan Huong Ward in central Đà Lạt, suggested at a March 9th meeting that traffic police should take on the role of "friendly guides" for visitors arriving by road. The proposal comes as city officials brace for a significant increase in overland travel during the airport closure period.
Beyond Traffic Control
The suggestion represents a shift in thinking about public service in Vietnam's beloved mountain city. Rather than simply directing traffic, officers would actively assist tourists and drivers navigating Đà Lạt's winding streets and busy intersections.
"We need to create a sense of security so tourists want to return," Hiep emphasized during the ward meeting, which brought together officials from central Đà Lạt's key neighborhoods to discuss traffic management solutions and tourism stimulus measures.
Preparing for the Rush
With Lien Khuong Airport's temporary closure looming, city planners anticipate a dramatic increase in buses, private vehicles, and motorcycles winding their way up Highway 20 to reach the flower city. The mountain roads leading into Đà Lạt, already challenging for first-time visitors, could become particularly congested.
Local authorities are clearly thinking beyond mere traffic management. By positioning police as welcoming ambassadors, the city hopes to maintain its reputation for hospitality even during what could be a chaotic period.
A Personal Touch
For those of us who call Đà Lạt home, this initiative reflects our city's character. We've always prided ourselves on treating visitors like family, and extending that warmth through our traffic officers seems like a natural evolution. After all, a friendly face directing you to the night market or explaining the quickest route to your hotel can make all the difference in a traveler's experience.
The proposal awaits official approval, but it signals Đà Lạt's commitment to turning a potential inconvenience into an opportunity for even better visitor service.