Despite a decrease in incidents, railway traffic accidents remain a serious concern in the first five months of 2025, particularly at level crossings between roads and railways.

According to data from Vietnam Railways Corporation, between December 16, 2024, and May 15, 2025, 60 railway accidents occurred - nine fewer than in the same period last year, marking a 13% drop. However, 23 people lost their lives (a decrease of five, or 18%), and 36 others were injured (down by four, or 10%).

In response, the Ministry of Construction has sent official instructions to the People’s Committees of provinces and cities with railway routes, urging them to intensify efforts to safeguard railway traffic order and safety. Authorities are required to strictly enforce regulations on railway safety corridors.

Local governments must staff dangerous, unauthorized level crossings with guards or warning systems, construct access roads and fencing, and work to narrow or eliminate illegal crossings. Boundary markers for railway safety corridors must be installed and handed over to local authorities for management.

People’s Committees are also instructed to direct law enforcement agencies to strictly penalize violations such as reopening previously closed crossings, removing safety barriers, encroaching on railway safety zones, or intentionally crossing tracks despite warnings and barriers.

The Vietnam Railway Authority has been tasked with boosting public education efforts, particularly in communities living near railway lines, focusing on high-risk areas around level crossings and unauthorized access points. The authority must also coordinate with local police to investigate accidents and rigorously enforce regulations related to railway corridors and traffic laws.

Vietnam Railways Corporation is ordered to increase inspections of all personnel directly involved in train operations - including dispatchers, engineers, level crossing attendants, and bridge guards. Organizations and individuals found negligent or responsible for accidents must be held accountable.

N. Huyen