$838M Expansion Set for Hanoi’s Congested Road

Photo courtesy of VN Express

Hanoi plans a significant expansion of Lang Road to alleviate severe traffic congestion. The project aims to widen a 4-kilometer stretch of the road, currently a bottleneck in the city's Ring Road 2, which supports over 8,000 vehicles per hour despite being built for only 3,000. The proposed changes include widening the road to 53.5 meters and adding an elevated expressway at a cost of over VND21.3 trillion (US$838 million).

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This section of Lang Road, part of the 43.6-kilometer Ring Road 2, has long been the missing link in Hanoi’s inner-city transport network. The city’s Department of Construction submitted the expansion plan to the People's Committee, aiming to complete it by 2028. Chronic congestion during rush hours, particularly at the Nga Tu So intersection, necessitated this initiative as part of the broader efforts to improve Hanoi's road infrastructure.

City engineers considered alternatives, such as a large underground tunnel, but concluded that an elevated expressway was more feasible. The tunnel option posed several logistical challenges, including interference from existing metro pillars and potential damage to local sites like the Mieu Pagoda. Moreover, it would not accommodate the necessary traffic lanes efficiently, making it less cost-effective.

Conversely, the elevated expressway solution is expected to integrate well with existing infrastructure, such as the completed sections of Ring Road 2. The plan minimizes construction disruption and facilitates easy access via ramps at intersections. Initially funded by public investment, there is an opportunity to switch to a public-private partnership for further financial support.

The Nga Tu So-Cau Giay stretch remains the only part of Ring Road 2 yet to be expanded or to include an elevated road. Once completed, the ring road will enhance connectivity across key Hanoi bridges: the Vinh Tuy, Nhat Tan, and Dong Tru, reported VN Express.

Key Takeaways

• Hanoi plans to expand Lang Road to reduce traffic congestion.

• The project is set to be completed by 2028 with a budget of US$838 million.

• An elevated expressway was chosen for feasibility and minimal disruption.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · VN Express · 26 Feb 2026