Vietnam Ministry of Construction Responds to High-Speed Rail Rerouting Proposal Near Heritage Site

Vietnam's Ministry of Construction has addressed a request from the Khánh Hòa Provincial People's Committee to adjust the North-South high-speed rail line's path. The proposed route currently encroaches on the protected zone of the Hoa Lai Tower, a national special heritage site.

The ministry acknowledged the provincial committee's concerns. It stated that it is actively directing the Thăng Long Project Management Board, the project's investor, to expedite the selection of consultants for the high-speed rail project's feasibility study. The ministry will ensure that the chosen route minimizes negative impacts on local residents, historical and spiritual sites, and transportation connectivity.

Khánh Hòa province had previously requested the rerouting, citing the Hoa Lai Tower's significant historical, cultural, and architectural value. The province is currently developing a plan to preserve and restore the site, which includes protected zones. The proposed rail line's elevated section was found to pass through the secondary protection area of the tower, potentially affecting its landscape, historical context, and overall integrity.

The Ministry of Construction expressed its desire for continued cooperation with Khánh Hòa province to ensure the project's success while respecting the heritage site. The ministry emphasized the importance of selecting the most optimal route, considering all factors to maximize the project's investment efficiency and contribute to local socio-economic development.

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The ministry will instruct the investor to direct the consultant during the survey and feasibility study to thoroughly research the terrain, geology, and land clearance conditions of the project area. From there, select the most optimal route option, minimizing the impact on people's lives, historical and spiritual sites, as well as ensuring regional transportation connectivity with the railway line to exploit synchronously, maximize the project's investment efficiency and contribute to the local socio-economic development.