The Capital’s Underground: Hanoi Breaks Ground on Two New Metro Lines

THE HANOI CHRONICLE — The Hanoi People’s Committee has unveiled ambitious plans to commence construction on two urban rail lines and six bridges this year, marking a significant step towards enhancing the city’s transport infrastructure.

According to the announced schedule, work on Metro Line 2 (Nam Thang Long–Tran Hung Dao) and Metro Line 5 (Van Cao–Hoa Lac) is slated to begin in October. Metro Line 2, with a length of 11.5 kilometers, will feature a combination of underground and elevated sections, including seven underground and three elevated stations. The project’s estimated cost has risen to nearly VND35.6 trillion (US$1.4 billion), reflecting the scale and complexity of the undertaking.

Hanoi residents experience a smooth ride on the Cat Linh-Ha Dong metro, a pioneering project in the city’s public transport network. Photo: Khanh Huy/The Hanoi Times

Metro Line 5, on the other hand, demands an investment of over VND61.9 trillion ($2.4 billion) for its 38-kilometer length. It will feature six underground and 15 elevated stations, connecting various parts of the city seamlessly.

Hanoi currently operates two metro lines: the 13-kilometer Cat Linh–Yen Nghia line and the 8.5-kilometer Nhon-Hanoi station line, which opened in November 2021 and August 2024, respectively. The city aims to expand this network significantly, targeting 97 kilometers of metro lines by 2030 and a remarkable 200 kilometers by 2045. The long-term vision extends to 10 metro lines totaling over 410 kilometers by 2050 and an extensive network of 25 lines spanning 617 kilometers by 2065.

In addition to the Tu Lien Bridge, which is already under construction, Hanoi’s Mayor Tran Sy Thanh has set construction schedules for several other bridges this year, including Hong Ha, Me So, Thuong Cat, Ngoc Hoi, Tran Hung Dao, and Van Phuc. These projects underscore the city’s commitment to improving connectivity and easing transportation within its boundaries.

Special Mechanisms to Accelerate Urban Railway Development

The Hanoi authorities have proposed a comprehensive set of mechanisms and policies to expedite urban railway projects. These include measures related to capital mobilization, investment procedures, and the implementation of the transit-oriented development (TOD) model. One notable aspect is the integration of urban development planning with the TOD model, ensuring that transportation and land use work in harmony.

A panoramic view of the Nhon-Hanoi Station metro line, showcasing the city’s dedication to modern transportation solutions. Photo: Duy Khanh/The Hanoi Times

To further accelerate progress, the Hanoi People’s Committee has set clear goals for the urban railway line development, emphasizing transparency and efficiency. Relevant units are tasked with reviewing land ownership and identifying potential development sites along the railway corridors, in line with the TOD model. Functional units are also requested to ensure power system planning meets the demands of these ambitious projects, especially those adopting the TOD approach.

Investment procedures are being expedited, and local authorities are urged to prioritize land acquisition and site clearance for these key infrastructure projects. These coordinated efforts reflect Hanoi’s determination to transform its urban transport landscape, offering enhanced mobility and connectivity to its residents and visitors alike.

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