The Vietnamese National Assembly has officially approved the investment plan for the Lao Cai – Hanoi – Hai Phong railway project, a large-scale infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and economic development.
The project, with a total investment of VND 203,231 billion (approximately USD 8.37 billion), is expected to be completed no later than 2030.
High Approval Rate for a Strategic Infrastructure Project
During the 9th extraordinary session on February 19, the National Assembly voted overwhelmingly in favor of the resolution, with 455 out of 459 deputies (95.19%) supporting the investment policy. The approval reflects the strong consensus on the project’s importance in boosting Vietnam’s transportation network and strengthening economic ties with China and global trade routes.
A Modern Railway for International and Domestic Transport
The resolution underscores the development of a modern, high-capacity, and synchronized railway system designed to meet both domestic and international transportation demands. The railway will serve as a critical link in Vietnam’s trade corridor with China, fostering economic growth and industrial expansion.
Project Scope and Specifications
The 390.9 km railway will stretch from the Vietnam-China border in Lao Cai to Lach Huyen Port in Hai Phong, passing through nine provinces and major cities: Lao Cai, Yen Bai, Phu Tho, Vinh Phuc, Hanoi, Bac Ninh, Hung Yen, Hai Duong, and Hai Phong. Additional branch lines spanning 27.9 km will also be constructed.
The railway will be a single-track system with a 1,435 mm gauge, designed for both passenger and cargo transportation. The operational speeds are planned as follows: 160 km/h for the main line (Lao Cai – Hai Phong); 120 km/h through Hanoi’s city hub; 80 km/h for other sections
Investment and Land Use
- Funding: The project will be state-funded, using allocations from Vietnam’s medium-term public investment plan and other legal financial sources.
- Land Acquisition: The railway will require approximately 2,632 hectares, including:
- 716 hectares of rice fields (709 hectares designated for two or more crops)
- 878 hectares of forestry land
- 1,038 hectares of other land types
- Resettlement: An estimated 19,136 residents will be relocated as part of the project.
Adopting Modern Railway Technology
The railway will be developed using electrification and modern railway technology, ensuring efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability. The project’s land acquisition plan accommodates future expansion, allowing for a double-track upgrade along the Lao Cai – Hai Phong main line, while maintaining a single-track system for other sections.
A Key Step Toward Vietnam’s Infrastructure Transformation
The approval of the Lao Cai – Hanoi – Hai Phong railway marks a milestone in Vietnam’s transportation infrastructure development, enhancing regional connectivity, trade competitiveness, and economic integration with China. With a targeted completion date of 2030, the project is set to become a key driver of sustainable growth and industrial expansion in northern Vietnam.
Related
Discover more from Vietnam Insider
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Source: Vietnam Insider