Vietnam Accelerates Preparations for Lao Cai – Hanoi – Hai Phong Railway Line

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Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has instructed all relevant ministries and agencies to expedite preparations for the groundbreaking of the Lao Cai – Hanoi – Hai Phong railway line, scheduled for December 19. During a meeting on May 20 with multiple governmental bodies, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for coordinated efforts and clear accountability in the execution of this and other railway projects, including connections with China.

Highlighting the importance of the Vietnam-China railway connection agreements, Chinh tasked ministries with creating a structured framework detailing responsibilities, timelines, and expected outcomes. The Ministry of Construction was directed to develop a detailed schedule to ensure the five designated sites for the Lao Cai – Hanoi – Hai Phong line are ready by the set date. Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha will oversee inter-ministerial coordination and execution.

The Prime Minister also stressed the urgent need for completing pre-feasibility and feasibility reports, proposing new mechanisms and policies, and addressing land clearance issues. A comprehensive financing plan including public investment, bank loans, bonds, and public-private partnerships, both domestic and foreign, is deemed essential.

In terms of technology, Chinh underlined the need for negotiations focused on technology transfer, particularly in locomotive manufacturing and railway signaling systems. Comprehensive workforce training across all technical levels is also a priority. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been tasked with continuing cross-border railway cooperation in alignment with the Vietnam–China joint statement.

For the North-South high-speed railway, spanning 1,541 kilometers with an estimated cost exceeding $67 billion, PM Chinh called for progress on site clearance, consultant selection, and technical standards. He instructed regular progress updates every Monday to ensure disciplined execution.

The Lao Cai – Hanoi – Hai Phong railway, estimated to cost over $8.3 billion and span nearly 419 kilometers, has completed several preliminary steps including land clearance designs and route alignment. Local authorities have set up land clearance task forces and are progressing with implementation, while project developers finalize environmental impact assessments and secure funding.

Additional projects include the Hanoi – Dong Dang line ($6 billion, 156 kilometers) and the Hai Phong – Ha Long – Mong Cai route ($7 billion, 187 kilometers). Planning documents and feasibility studies for these lines are underway, with special investment mechanisms and policies being drafted.

This comprehensive push underscores Vietnam’s commitment to enhancing its railway infrastructure, fostering regional connectivity, and driving economic growth through strategic transportation initiatives.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-05-21