Vietnam unveils plan to build a 100-km Metro Rail Network in Hanoi by 2030

Hanoi, Vietnam (Metro Rail Today): In a bold move towards modernizing its public transportation system, Hanoi has announced an ambitious plan to complete 96.8 kilometers of urban railways by 2030. This effort is part of a broader strategy to establish a comprehensive 550-kilometer railway network by 2045. The Hanoi People’s Committee, in a recent statement, emphasized the significance of this metro network as the backbone of the capital's public transportation system.

The Vision for 2030

Hanoi’s historic first metro line, currently the only operational metro in Vietnam, is just the beginning. The city's latest announcement reveals a determined effort to expand the metro network significantly. Authorities and their contracted partners are striving to build and operationalize 96.8 kilometers of new rail by 2030. This phase of the project is estimated to cost $14.6 billion.

Upon completion, the 2030 phase aims to serve 7% of the public transportation passengers, providing up to 2.6 million rides per day. This expansion is expected to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce pollution, and enhance the overall efficiency of urban mobility in Hanoi.

The Roadmap to 2045

The committee’s statement outlines a three-phase roadmap to achieve the city’s ambitious goals:

1. Phase One (By 2030): As mentioned, this phase involves the construction of 96.8 kilometers of new rail, requiring an investment of $14.6 billion. This phase is crucial for laying the groundwork for the entire network.

2. Phase Two (By 2035): The second phase will see an additional 301 kilometers of track, stations, and depots constructed. This phase, estimated to cost $22.5 billion, aims to expand the network’s capacity significantly. By the end of this phase, the metro system is expected to handle up to 40% of the public transportation passenger demand, providing up to 11.8 million rides per day.

3. Phase Three (By 2045): The final phase involves completing the remaining construction to achieve the full 550 kilometers of urban railway lines. The completion of this phase will enable the metro system to meet up to 55% of travel demands, significantly transforming Hanoi’s transportation landscape.

Challenges and Realities

While the plan is ambitious, the Hanoi People’s Committee acknowledges the potential challenges ahead. The committee’s statement includes a rare admission of the immense resources required to bring this vision to fruition, which could pose significant obstacles in mobilizing the necessary funding.

The history of metro construction in Vietnam has seen its share of delays and setbacks. For example, the Cat Linh-Ha Dong line, which spans just 13 kilometers, currently serves around 35,000 passengers daily. Another line, the Nhon-Hanoi Station railway, is close to completion with 12.5 kilometers ready to be operational.

Despite these challenges, the city remains committed to its vision. The adjusted plan now includes 14 urban railway lines, up from the originally planned 10 lines, adding an extra 150 kilometers of rail. This expansion reflects Hanoi's determination to build a robust and efficient metro network capable of meeting the city's future transportation needs.

The Importance of the Metro Network

The metro network is poised to become the cornerstone of Hanoi's public transportation system. The successful implementation of this project is expected to:

• Reduce Traffic Congestion: With a significant portion of the population relying on metro services, road congestion is expected to decrease, making commutes faster and more efficient.

• Lower Pollution Levels: A shift from road-based transport to rail will contribute to reducing the city's carbon footprint, leading to improved air quality and public health.

• Boost Economic Growth: Improved transportation infrastructure is a catalyst for economic development. It facilitates easier movement of goods and people, attracting businesses and boosting tourism.

• Enhance Quality of Life: A reliable and efficient metro system will enhance the overall quality of life for Hanoi’s residents, providing them with a modern, safe, and convenient mode of transportation.

Hanoi's plan to develop a 100-kilometer metro rail network by 2030 is a bold step towards transforming the city’s public transportation system. Despite the anticipated challenges in funding and construction, the city's commitment to this vision reflects a forward-thinking approach to urban planning and mobility.

By 2045, the completion of the 550-kilometer network aims to meet over half of the city’s travel demands, making Hanoi a model for urban transportation in the region. As the city moves forward with this ambitious project, it sets a precedent for other cities in Vietnam and beyond to follow, showcasing the potential of modern, efficient, and sustainable public transportation systems.