Vietnam province proposes new expressway to boost northern economic corridor

Quang Ninh province has officially proposed the inclusion of a new expressway, the Hai Phong - Ha Long expressway, connecting to Hanoi's Ring Road 5, into Vietnam's national highway network plan for 2021-2030, with a vision towards 2050. This strategic addition aims to forge a new transportation corridor for the northern region, enhancing connectivity between Quang Ninh, Hai Phong, and the Hanoi capital region.

The proposed expressway would span approximately 55 kilometers. Its starting point is planned at the Ha Long Xanh intersection (Km6+700) on the existing Hai Phong - Ha Long - Mong Cai expressway in Quang Ninh province. The expressway's terminus would connect directly to Hanoi's Ring Road 5 within Hai Phong city. The project envisions a high-speed, six-lane highway designed for speeds between 100-120 km/h, with accompanying four-lane service roads on both sides expected to be completed by 2026.

According to the Quang Ninh delegation of the National Assembly, the province has largely completed land clearance for the proposed route. Local government funds are earmarked for the project's implementation once it receives approval and is integrated into the national plan. This initiative is synchronized with the government's ongoing consideration of the Ring Road 5 project by the National Assembly, reflecting a concerted effort to develop strategic transportation infrastructure and foster inter-regional links.

If approved, the Hai Phong - Ha Long expressway connecting to Ring Road 5 is expected to significantly enhance the transportation capacity of northeastern Vietnam. This development is anticipated to stimulate growth in industries, logistics, and tourism, optimize the use of seaports and airports, and unlock the potential of economic zones, thereby creating new development momentum for the region.