The high cost of not closing Hanoi's Train Street

A nearly one-minute video shared by Seniworld Travel on Oct. 7 showed a train passing through the popular trackside café street, crashing into tables placed close to the tracks as startled diners looked on.

Some tables were knocked over, spilling food and drinks, while visitors jumped up in panic.

 

 

The high cost of not closing Hanoi's Train Street

Tàu đâm nát bàn ghế ở phố đường tàu Hà Nội

The incident has ignited debate among VnExpress readers about the necesscity to close the thrilling attraction for good.

"This is not the first time, and I believe it won't be the last," said reader Vuong Diep following the incident that went viral on social media, prompoting authorities to launch an investigation.

"Today, it was tables and chairs, but next time it could very well be people. Tourists sit so close to the train, there's no space to retreat if something goes wrong. A table being knocked over could easily injure someone, and a pebble flung from the train could be as dangerous as a bullet. The authorities have cleared the area several times, but it always returns to chaos. We can only clear it for 15-30 minutes, and then it's crowded again."

Sharing similar concerns, reader Giangdoxuan pointed out the risk posed by the crowd filming the train as it passes: "Imagine if a table tipped over and struck an unlucky tourist— it could be a disaster. While the train street café brings excitement and economic benefits to the area, it's time to permanently shut it down for safety reasons."

Reader Lao Kim Bai also voiced concern, emphasizing: "These are passenger trains, not tourist trains. They have a schedule to keep, and the human eye can't measure the distance to the train accurately. Even the café staff, sometimes tired or distracted, could make a small mistake that leads to serious consequences. When risks come, it will be too late."

On the other hand, reader Le Hoang, while acknowledging the risks, suggested that with proper measures, the Train Street could stay. "This place attracts many foreign tourists, and most tours include a stop here. The cafés must be vigilant in ensuring tourists' safety. If they're negligent, the consequences could be severe."

Reader Cuonggs agreed that the café should be maintained but suggested a solution: "We can still keep it, but we should install a stylish stainless steel fence. It would separate the tourists from the trains, ensuring safety without taking away the area's charm."