Vietnam Set to Triple Fines for Railway Violations, Introduce 'Cold' Enforcement

New regulations set to take effect on May 15, 2026, will dramatically escalate penalties for individuals and organizations caught violating railway safety rules in Vietnam. Decree 81, replacing the older Decree 100, introduces significantly higher fines, some increasing up to sixfold, reflecting a serious governmental effort to curb dangerous behavior on the nation's rail infrastructure.

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The penalty for driving a car across a railway barrier, level crossing, or shared bridge when the red light is on, and not complying with the signals or instructions of railway staff, will be fined from VND 18-20 million.

The decree specifically targets egregious violations such as crossing railway barriers when a red light is active or ignoring signals from railway staff. For car drivers, fines for such offenses will jump to VND 18-20 million, a fourfold increase from the current VND 2-5 million, and will also result in a 1-3 month suspension of their driving license. Motorcyclists face similar steep increases, with the maximum fine rising to VND 6 million, six times the current maximum.

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For motorcycles crossing the barrier like the above, the fine will be from VND 4-6 million, with the highest level being 6 times the current regulation.

Beyond direct violations at crossings, the decree also addresses other unsafe practices. Fines for stopping or parking within the safety zone of a railway crossing will increase to VND 500,000 for individuals on bicycles or other non-motorized vehicles, up from VND 200,000. Furthermore, the new regulations empower authorities to implement "cold" or remote enforcement, allowing for penalties to be issued based on evidence gathered remotely, expanding the reach of law enforcement.

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In both cases, the driver will also have their driver's license revoked for 1-3 months.

This stricter enforcement regime, as detailed by Tuoi Tre, underscores Vietnam's commitment to improving railway safety amidst a backdrop of persistent violations and tragic accidents. The substantial fine increases and the introduction of remote enforcement aim to create a stronger deterrent effect, compelling greater adherence to safety protocols and ultimately protecting lives and ensuring the smooth operation of the railway network. The government's move signals a clear message: the era of lenient penalties for railway transgressions is over.

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Authorities will apply 'cold' fines when handling violations in the field of railway traffic safety.