VietNamNet Bridge – Viet Nam Railways (VNR) has proposed a project to the Ministry of Transport to repair and upgrade 100 level crossings on the North-South railway route.

At least 100 railroad crossings will be upgraded to automatic barrier crossings. – VNA/VNS Photo Viet Hung

VNR plans to upgrade the current crossings to automatic barriers at a cost of VND170 billion (US$7.5 million), the online Vietnamplus newspaper reported.

VNR said the project is expected to be complete this year if it is approved by the ministry.

It has reviewed and prioritised the railroads running through densely populated residential areas, which pose a high risk of accidents.

According to statistics, 96 accidents have taken place at these crossings from 2015 to date, killing 46 people and injuring 88, apart from damaging properties belonging to both the State and the public.

The upgradation aims to ensure safety at long-standing train accident hotspots at level crossings, said VNR. 

Source: VNS