Railway authorities firm about shutting down Hanoi Train Street to tourists

There are makeshift coffee shops and so-called selfie hotspots along the track that runs just feet from buildings in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter.

Two weeks ago, after they were closed down for good since the place was too risky, businesses on the street urged authorities to consider making it a fun and safe tourist destination instead of shutting it down.

But railway authorities have refused to reconsider the decision.

Now tourists are prohibited from filming on the street and drinking coffee there, and warning signs saying "dangerous area" have been installed on Tran Phu, Nguyen Thai Hoc and Dien Bien Phu streets.

On September 18 a South Korean tourist was hit by a train while trying to take photos but escaped unhurt.