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Vietnam will impose significantly higher fines for railway traffic violations under Decree No. 81/2026/NĐ-CP, effective May 15. This change aims to deter careless driving behaviors that compromise safety at railway crossings. Key penalties include fines up to $800 for car drivers and $240 for motorcyclists who ignore red signals, along with licence suspensions.

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Decree 81 replaces previous measures under Decree No 100/2019/NĐ-CP, aligning penalties with serious road traffic offenses. The decree introduces a point deduction system on driving licenses, targeting repeat offenders regardless of financial capacity. This legal shift follows recent accidents caused by non-compliance at crossings, prompting a focus on stricter enforcement.

Khương Kim Tạo, former deputy chief of office for the National Traffic Safety Committee, emphasized the need for rigorous enforcement beyond new fines. He highlighted the danger of illegally opened crossings, which have persisted despite past efforts. Under the decree, severe fines are set for such violations, yet enforcement remains crucial.

Local authorities play a pivotal role under the new regulations. Commune-level People’s Committee chairpersons gain expanded authority to enforce fines up to $1,425 and suspend licenses. Tạo supports this decentralized approach, noting its significance in managing traffic safety effectively at local levels.

Technological interventions are also encouraged to curb violations, particularly with motorcycles and rudimentary vehicles. AI-powered cameras can detect and document infractions, providing indisputable evidence. However, technological upgrades are necessary to recognize license plates and verify identities accurately.

Looking ahead, Vietnam aims to enhance railway safety and urban management by developing high-speed rail systems. This initiative will further separate railway corridors from residential areas, ensuring safety and efficiency as urbanization progresses.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · VN Express · 27 Apr 2026

All fine and dandy, but why can't the VN gov't focus on reducing the god awful noise pollution?

What would it take to run PSA's country wide?

The government was successful in getting people to finally wear motorbike helmets.

The same could be done to get folks to stop beeping.

Traffic noise is the #1 complaint I hear from friends who've visited VN.

And they don't plan to return because of it.

Edited April 27Apr 27 by Woke to Sounds