Hanoi, Dec. 24 -- Transportation stands as a leading contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, fine particulate matter, and toxic pollutants detrimental to public health, with surging vehicle ownership intensifying demand on regulators to bolster emissions control.

Data from the Traffic Police Department at the Ministry of Public Security showed that Vietnam now counts over 7.2 million registered automobiles and 80.6 million motorcycles and mopeds. A substantial share of these, especially motorcycles in use for years without routine checks or upkeep, are aging fleets that rank among the biggest emitters. Yet emissions control, particularly in densely trafficked cities, has proven inadequate.

To curb vehicular pollution, the Prime Ministe...