Hanoi’s ‘train street’ cafés resume operations days after police sweep: media

The narrow section of railway running through residential alleys has become a well-known attraction for both domestic and foreign tourists who gather to watch trains pass at close range.

The Vietnam News Agency said authorities on Tuesday removed illegal canopies, seating, and other structures at the rail section between Kham Thien and Le Duan Streets, requiring about 30 shop owners to sign commitments not to violate railway safety rules.

The news outlet said vendors began setting up tables again once enforcement teams left.

Nhan Dan, another newspaper, reported that joint police units inspected the area on Tuesday and Wednesday amid long-standing concerns over crowds gathering within the railway safety zone.

The paper cited past incidents in which passing trains brushed against café furniture.

According to Nhan Dan, Hanoi authorities have conducted repeated crackdowns, including issuing 69 penalties and nearly VND55.7 million (US$2,113) in fines between May 15 and June 15, but encroachment continues.

Reporters from both outlets said cafés were again serving tourists next to the tracks on Wednesday and Thursday.

Traffic experts quoted by Nhan Dan said commercial and tourism activities within the protected rail corridor violate railway safety regulations and recommended relocating households in the zone and redesigning the surrounding urban space.