Government Decree 81/2026/ND-CP, which took effect on May 15, increased penalties for a range of railway traffic violations in an effort to improve deterrence and reduce accidents.
Under the new rules, motorbike riders crossing railway barriers while gates are closing, ignoring red warning lights or failing to follow railway crossing signals can face fines of VND 4-6 million (USD 155-USD 232), up from previous penalties of VND 600,000 to VND 1 million.
Drivers of cars and larger vehicles face fines of VND 18-20 million, compared with previous penalties of VND 4-6 million. Offenders may also have their driving licences suspended for one to three months.
Hanoi traffic police said 18 railway traffic violations were recorded between May 15 and May 17, resulting in fines totalling VND 24 million, four driving licence suspensions and one vehicle seizure.
Most offences involved stopping or parking within railway crossing areas, while five cases involved crossing after warning barriers or signals had been activated.
Police said the number of violations had fallen by 75 cases, or 80.6 per cent, compared with the immediately preceding period, reflecting the initial impact of the tougher penalties.
Authorities said traffic police would continue coordinating with the railway sector to strengthen inspections and strictly handle violations while increasing public awareness campaigns on railway traffic safety.
