Hanoi launches five new metro lines to reshape urban landscape
Translated from Vietnamese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Hanoi launched five new metro lines on June 22, aiming to create a modern, interconnected urban rail network.
- The project, with a preliminary investment of over 1.3 trillion Vietnamese dong, is expected to be largely completed by 2030.
- Experts praise the city's determination but caution that meticulous technical and engineering management is crucial for success.
Hanoi has kicked off construction on five new metro lines, a significant step toward modernizing the capital's urban transport. The simultaneous launch of lines 1, 2, 8, 10, and 14, totaling over 300 kilometers, marks a shift from developing individual routes to building a comprehensive, city-wide network.
The simultaneous launch of five metro lines with a preliminary investment of over 1.3 trillion Vietnamese dong is a particularly important milestone, marking a transition from the phase of investing in individual lines to gradually forming a synchronous and modern urban railway network on a city-wide scale.
City officials stated that the project, with an estimated cost exceeding 1.3 trillion Vietnamese dong (approximately $51 million USD), is a pivotal moment. The new lines will directly connect Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi Station, and key development areas like Ngoc Hoi, Hoa Lac, Thu Lam, Co Loa, and Ocean Park. The ambitious goal is to have these five lines substantially completed by 2030.
This expansion is part of a century-long vision for Hanoi, which ultimately plans for 18 metro lines spanning 979 kilometers. Currently, the city operates the Cat Linh-Hadong line and the elevated section of the Nhon-Hanoi Station line. The city also plans to start construction on metro line 2 (Nam Thang Long-Tran Hung Dao) and line 5 (Van Cao-Hoa Lac) by the end of 2025.
The implementation of five metro lines simultaneously demonstrates a very strong determination from the city government. Regarding resources, it can be seen that Hanoi has made efforts in mobilizing investment capital.
Experts acknowledge Hanoi's strong commitment and efforts in securing funding. However, they stress the importance of rigorous technical management, especially given the complex mix of underground and elevated sections. Ensuring advanced technology and precise construction techniques will be vital for meeting project deadlines and creating a functional, integrated public transport system that can reshape urban development.
However, Hanoi needs to pay special attention when implementing these five metro lines in the coming time regarding technical management.
Originally published by Thanh Niรชn in Vietnamese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.