Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung on February 12 sent an official telegram requiring relevant agencies to intensify measures taken to assure traffic safety during the remaining days of the Tet holiday and upcoming 2013 spring festivals.

He requested the Ministry of Public Security, Ministry of Transport, People’s municipal and provincial committees, and National Traffic Safety Committee to continue to implement his directions on the issue seriously.

These agencies need to improve traffic investigations and patrols, and strictly punish individuals who break the law - especially those caught driving under the influence of alcohol.

During the first four days of the Lunar New Year, there were 170 traffic accidents nationwide, leaving 147 people injured and 144 dead.

Source: VNA