Vietnam has approved plans to build a high-speed railway linking Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, with an estimated investment of $67 billion, according to CNN.
Spanning 1,541 kilometers (957 miles), the rail line will connect the country’s political and financial hubs. Trains will reach speeds of up to 350 kph (217 mph), reducing travel time from the current 30 hours to just five hours.
The decision was endorsed by Vietnam’s National Assembly, as reported by CNN and local outlets. Construction is slated to begin in 2027, with operations expected to commence by 2035. However, Vietnam’s history of delays in large-scale infrastructure projects has raised concerns about the timeline.
The railway will traverse 20 provinces and cities, featuring 23 passenger stations and five freight stations. It will serve both passenger and cargo transportation needs, as well as defense purposes, according to state media.
Deputy Minister of Transport Nguyen Danh Huy emphasized the necessity of the project to address increasing transport demands. Studies have highlighted the urgent need for faster travel options along Vietnam’s north-south corridor.
“This project is critical for reshaping transportation and marks a foundational step in Vietnam’s pursuit of a new phase of development,” Huy stated.
Vietnam plans to prioritize domestic funding for the initiative but is open to affordable and non-restrictive foreign loans if needed, according to state media.
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Source: Vietnam Insider