HCMC – The investment plan for a high-speed railway connecting the north and south of Vietnam will soon be sent to the National Assembly for review, according to local media.
On November 6, the National Assembly Standing Committee convened to look into the investment plan for the North-South express railway project and agreed to bring it forward to the National Assembly for consideration and approval.
Minister of Transport Nguyen Van Thang highlighted the project’s goal of addressing transportation needs, reshaping the North-South transport market, and spurring socio-economic development along the corridor.
The proposed railway will stretch 1,541 kilometers from Ngoc Hoi Station in Hanoi to Thu Thiem Station in HCMC, passing through 20 provinces and cities.
The plan involves constructing a new double-track line with a 1,435mm gauge, designed for speeds of up to 350 kilometers per hour.
Primarily intended for passenger transport, the railway will also be available for national defense purposes and could be adapted for freight transport if necessary.
The Government recommends funding the project with public investment, estimating the preliminary total cost at over VND1.71 quadrillion (US$67.34 billion).
During the meeting, National Assembly Vice Chairman Nguyen Duc Hai emphasized the importance of ensuring the project’s feasibility and maintaining national financial stability. He noted the need for effective risk management, particularly given Vietnam’s concurrent infrastructure projects in transportation and energy.
As per the National Assembly agenda, Minister Nguyen Van Thang will formally present the Government’s proposal on November 13.
The National Assembly will hold discussions and provide feedback in a committee session that morning. A full assembly debate on the project is scheduled for November 20, with a final vote expected on November 30.
