This week, traffic police forces nationwide continued to deploy numerous task forces to intensify patrols, inspections, and enforcement at road-rail intersections. Hundreds of violations were processed; for example, 110 cases on 12/5 and 114 cases on 13/5.
Common violations included crossing railway lines when red lights were active, boom barriers were not yet lowered, intentionally crossing as barriers were descending, and stopping or parking vehicles within the railway safety zone.
Drivers attempting to beat trains despite stop signals. *Video: Traffic Police Department*
Particularly serious incidents involved large trucks deliberately speeding across tracks even after barriers were lowered, sometimes knocking barriers away or leaving drivers struggling to maneuver as trains rapidly approached.
Recently, several severe accidents have occurred when drivers became trapped on railway tracks, both at informal crossings used by residents and at guarded crossings equipped with lights and warning signals. The Traffic Police Department warns that road-rail intersections always pose a risk of serious accidents. Even a few seconds of negligence, intentionally bypassing a barrier, or improper stopping can lead to irreparable consequences.
Road users must strictly obey traffic lights, warning bells, and the instructions of crossing guards, absolutely avoiding crossing when barriers are lowering or already down. Additionally, vehicles should not stop or park within the railway safety zone. Drivers should actively observe and reduce speed when passing through informal crossings.
Despite significantly increased penalties under Decree 168/2024 for vehicles bypassing barriers or intentionally crossing railway lines against a red signal, many drivers continue to disregard the dangers. Specifically, fines for this offense have risen to 20 million VND for automobiles (a four-fold increase from the previous 5 million VND) and 6 million VND for motorcycles (a six-fold increase from the previous 1 million VND).
A car struck by a train after getting stuck on the tracks, on the evening of 16/4 in Hanoi. *Video: Bao Chung*
Nguyen Vu
