A representative of Vietnam Railway Corporation stated that individuals observed walking, standing, lying down, or sitting on railway tracks may face fines ranging from approximately $12.77 to $21.28 (300,000 to 500,000 VND). 

On the afternoon of March 15, during an interview with VietNamNet, the representative explained that authorities are currently investigating the case of the two women who were posing on the tracks as a train approached.

The incident took place around 5:20 p.m. on March 12 in the Huong Lai – Vinh Yen area (Vinh Phuc).

Train 3206, en route to kilometer 54, encountered the two women nonchalantly walking on the tracks while taking photos, forcing the train operator to perform emergency braking and continuously sound the horn.

The episode sparked shock and outrage among onlookers. According to a widely circulated video clip, a passenger, visibly indignant, even threw water onto the area where the two women had just stepped off the tracks in a narrow moment.

When the train was approximately 10 meters away, the woman wearing a black dress jumped off the tracks.

Although the incident did not result in any injuries or damage to the train, the representative warned that if the operator had not detected and addressed the situation in time, the risk of a serious accident would have been significant.

The root cause was attributed to the lack of awareness and non-compliance with traffic regulations by the two women.

The representative further noted that according to Clause 1, Article 47 of Decree 100/2019/ND-CP, pedestrians who cross the barrier of an overpass or common bridge while it is moving or has been closed, or cross when the red light is activated, or who do not obey the instructions from road signs, markings, or the guidance of crossing guards, may be fined between approximately $2.55 and $4.26 (60,000 to 100,000 VND).

In addition, other violations regarding railway safety are clearly stipulated in Clause 1, Article 49 of the same decree.

Under this regulation, offenders may face fines ranging from approximately $12.77 to $21.28 (300,000 to 500,000 VND) for engaging in acts such as walking, standing, lying down, sitting, or any other behavior on the railway tracks, on bridges, or in tunnels designated for railway use (except for railway personnel or authorized individuals);

crossing the fence or barrier separating the railway from surrounding areas; allowing animals to cross the tracks improperly or pulling vehicles across without proper supervision; moving on train car roofs, engines, steps, or platforms;

clinging to or standing on both sides of the train, on the engine, or at the connections between carriages; opening doors to allow parts of the body or objects to extend outside while the train is in motion (except for authorized personnel);

placing straw, grain, agricultural products, or other items on the tracks or on railway structures; or scattering soil, sand, or other materials onto the tracks.

This is not the first time that individuals have nonchalantly stepped onto railway tracks. A typical example of this behavior occurred at a railway café on Phung Hung Street in Hanoi.

The representative emphasized that the railway is a hazardous area and that unauthorized pedestrian access can result in severe accidents.

They added, "If violations lead to accidents or damage to railway structures, the offender may be subject to civil or criminal liability, depending on the extent of the damage. Offenders, if identified, will be admonished and fined by traffic police or railway personnel in accordance with regulations."

Efforts to reduce accidents have led the railway sector to install barriers, warning signs, and conduct awareness campaigns to deter unauthorized access; however, violations continue to occur.

N. Huyen