Saigon Railway JSC has urged authorities in Ho Chi Minh City and neighboring Dong Nai Province to enhance patrols at railway crossings following recent incidents of reckless and intoxicated motorcyclists crashing into barriers as trains approached.

In its communication sent to the traffic safety committees of Ho Chi Minh City and Dong Nai, Saigon Railway reported 18 cases of motorcyclists slamming into barriers at guarded railway crossings in the two localities since the beginning of 2023, the firm said on Tuesday. 

One tragic incident in Dau Giay Town, Trang Bom District, Dong Nai resulted in two fatalities. 

Another incident involving a drunk motorcyclist occurred on Nguyen Kiem Street in Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City last Sunday. 

In one case, both the motorcyclist and the vehicle were thrown close to the tracks as the train approached, leaving railway guards with just over 13 seconds to intervene.

Surveillance data indicates that most incidents occur late at night, with many motorcyclists found to be intoxicated. 

These accidents have resulted in injuries to motorcyclists and railway employees and damage to railway equipment, posing a serious threat to train safety.

To ensure safety at railway crossings, especially during the current Lunar New Year holiday, Saigon Railway recommends that local authorities increase patrols, enforcement, and sanctions in high-risk areas. 

Efforts should be made to raise awareness among all road users about the importance of adhering to traffic laws.

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