Hanoi’s Urban Railway Development Plans for 2024-2025

Hanoi is set to develop an extensive urban railway system, comprising 12 routes over a total length of 600 kilometers, with projected funding of $50 billion.

Out of the total investment, $14.6 billion is earmarked for the construction of 96 kilometers of railways by 2030. An additional $22.5 billion will be allocated for 301 kilometers during the years 2031-2035, and $18.2 billion for another 200 kilometers from 2036 to 2045.

Challenges in Railway Construction

Constructing urban railways in Hanoi poses significant challenges. In the past two decades, only two lines – the Cat Linh – Ha Dong and the elevated Nhon – Hanoi Station lines – have commenced operations.

Experts caution that, at the current rate of progress, the complete urban railway network may not be finished as scheduled. Hanoi’s Vice Mayor, Duong Duc Tuan, pointed out that commercial operations for the two existing railway lines took between 10 to 15 years.

Tuan noted, “If we are to build 10 routes sequentially, it could take us 100 years.”

Mayor Tran Sy Thanh underscored the need for a simultaneous construction approach, referencing that the Nhon – Hanoi Station line has been under development for 15 years, particularly in the underground section.

Hanoi, with a population of 8.5 million and high urban density, faces increasing pressure on transport infrastructure due to rapid urbanization, leading to significant traffic congestion and pollution challenges.

Khuat Viet Hung, the director of the Institute of Transport Strategy and Development, emphasized that Hanoi is struggling to meet the demands for development and to alleviate traffic issues.

Hung highlighted the urgent need for an effective urban railway network to address these rising challenges.

Strategic Focus for Railway Development

To realize the envisioned urban railway system, Hanoi must prioritize resource allocation for railway expansion by enhancing revenue streams, exercising budgetary discipline, and leveraging available land assets. Additionally, adequate state funding is crucial for the city’s railway initiatives.

Nguyen Cao Minh, head of the Hanoi Urban Railway Management Board, noted that developing the railway network under the Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) model is essential for fostering dynamic and sustainable urban growth. He asserted that Hanoi currently has a unique opportunity to implement TOD in its long-term strategy.