Hanoi (dpa) – Just a few months after the reopening of the famous “Train Street” in Vietnam’s capital Hanoi, the authorities have once again closed the attraction.
After access was banned three years ago for security reasons, the cafes and grandstands along the train’s route, which runs between narrow blocks of houses, reopened as part of the loosening of the crown and attracted visitors Worldwide. At first, the city let tourists do their thing. A few days ago, however, he erected some barriers with big warning signs.
However, there was a dangerous incident: on Sunday, according to media reports, a South Korean tourist was hit by a slow train after climbing over the barriers. He was only slightly hurt. The newspaper “VnExpress” spoke of an “almost tragedy”.
A look back: Since 2018, more and more viewers have been drawn to the spectacular photos on the Internet. Train Street has become an Instagram hotspot. Cafes and souvenir stalls have been opened, local residents have set up food stalls and set up places particularly suitable for photography. Some restaurants even set tables directly on the platforms during the “train-free” time, and then clear them quickly when a train approaches.
Tourists were disappointed with the recent blockade. Many gathered at the barriers to glimpse the photogenic road. “I had no idea it was closed,” British news agency Lewis Hales said. “I thought I could sit in a cafe and have a coffee.” However, a security officer arrived immediately and forbade him to enter. “But I understand why,” Hales explained. “It looks really dangerous.”
The railway line, which crosses Dien Bien Phu Street on one side and Tran Phu Street on the other, dates back to the French colonial era: it was built in 1902, but still plays an important role for local and foreign travelers today.
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