According to the railway authorities, severe flooding has compromised the safety of several sections along the North-South railway line. As of this morning (November 19th), critical passenger train services, including SE7 from Hanoi, SE6 from Ho Chi Minh City, and SE21/SE22 from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City, have been suspended.
Previously, on November 17th and 18th, Vietnam Railways Corporation halted operations for six passenger trains: SNT1 (November 17th) and SE8, SE5, SE21/22, SE6 (November 18th). By 9 AM today, a total of 10 passenger trains have been grounded due to flooding—an unprecedented situation in recent years.
Tu Bông Station in Khanh Hoa Province submerged by floodwaters. Photo: VNR.
Critically, rising water levels in the Ha Thanh River have prompted railway officials to urgently request load-bearing train operations to stabilize the Luat Le 1 and 2 bridges in Dieu Tri, Gia Lai Province. This specialized technique is employed when bridges face significant flood pressure, requiring increased static weight to prevent structural deformation.
Additionally, passengers on trains SE7, SE1, and SE3 are being safely evacuated, with preparations underway for further evacuations.
Railway authorities are closely monitoring weather conditions and on-site developments to resume services as soon as safety is assured. Affected passengers will receive support for ticket exchanges or refunds as per regulations.
Urgent efforts to stabilize Luat Le 1 and 2 bridges. Photo: VNR.
Road infrastructure in the Central Highlands and Central regions is also severely impacted by landslides and deep flooding. The Vietnam Road Administration reports ongoing disruptions on multiple national highways and sections of the Ho Chi Minh Highway.
Specifically, the Ho Chi Minh Highway in Da Nang remains heavily damaged between Km1354+100 and Km1354+550, posing significant risks to vehicles and rescue teams. Highways 14D, 14E, 14H, and 40B have recorded dozens of slope failures, with several areas completely blocked.
National Highway 1 in Dak Lak Province has sections submerged under 60cm of water, forcing authorities to restrict traffic in areas with strong currents.
In response, the Ministry of Construction has issued urgent directives to transportation agencies in affected regions, mandating immediate countermeasures, risk assessments, and 24/7 staffing to manage traffic flow and prevent surprises.
Forecasted rainfall of 100-200mm (locally exceeding 300mm) through November 20th will continue to strain transportation infrastructure.
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