In an unusual and unexpected incident on May 19, passengers aboard the Cat Linh - Ha Dong metro line were seen using umbrellas inside a train to shield themselves from water leaking from the air conditioning system. Hanoi Metro has officially responded, describing the situation as an "unfortunate and rare technical error."

According to the Hanoi Metro Company (Hanoi Railway One Member Co., Ltd.), the incident occurred around 5:20 p.m. on train No. 1 of the 2A metro line when water began dripping from the air conditioning unit into one of the passenger cabins.

The company immediately dispatched staff from the 2A Operations Division to communicate with affected passengers and clean the wet floor to maintain service continuity. Afterward, the train was returned to the Phu Luong Depot for inspection and repairs.

“The initial investigation by the 2A Operations Division revealed that the issue stemmed from a malfunction in the train’s air conditioning control system, which disrupted proper drainage and caused the water to leak into the cabin,” the company said. “We have since invited specialists and technical staff to collaborate on fully resolving the issue by May 20.”

The company has also ordered a comprehensive technical review, particularly of all air conditioning control systems across the 2A line, to ensure that only trains meeting safety and quality standards continue operating.

Speaking with VietNamNet, a representative from Hanoi Metro shared that the metro trains and their supporting equipment were manufactured and imported in 2017. The company is preparing to submit a proposal to the Hanoi People's Committee to authorize a mid-life overhaul project for the trains, which would also include advanced technical training for personnel. The goal is to guarantee long-term operational safety and environmental stability for the Cát Linh - Hà Đông urban rail line.

“The leakage from the air conditioning unit, which caused inconvenience and hygiene concerns for passengers, was an isolated and regrettable incident. We sincerely apologize for this disruption,” said a company spokesperson.

Hanoi Metro leadership has committed to resolving the issue as quickly as possible and ensuring no recurrence.

N. Huyen