HCMC – The feasibility study for the Hanoi–Quang Ninh high-speed railway is facing procedural uncertainty over appraisal order and authority, prompting Quang Ninh’s construction authority to seek guidance from the Ministry of Construction.
The project is classified as a major inter-regional transport scheme with wide impacts on socio-economic development, national defense and security, and the national infrastructure system.
According to project documents, the railway would be about 120.2 kilometers long, with a design speed of 350 km per hour. Sections running through Hanoi would be designed for 120 km per hour. The project has been proposed by VinSpeed High-Speed Rail Investment and Development JSC.
The route is planned to start near the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Dong Anh Commune, Hanoi City, and end at the Forest Park area in Tuan Chau Ward, Quang Ninh Province. It would pass through Hanoi City, Bac Ninh, Haiphong and Quang Ninh provinces.
The plan includes four passenger stations at Co Loa, Gia Binh, Yen Tu and Ha Long Xanh, along with one station serving the Haiphong area.
Preliminary total investment is estimated at VND157.64 trillion, equivalent to about US$6.08 billion. The project would be developed as a business investment under the Investment Law, using non-state capital, with around 15% equity and 85% loans.
The railway is classified as a Group A project and a special-grade railway, applying high technology.
Given the project’s scale and complexity, the Quang Ninh Department of Construction has requested the Ministry of Construction to provide specific guidance on procedures for preparing and appraising the feasibility study. The department said ministerial-level appraisal would help ensure consistency, compliance with national standards and international practices, and reduce legal risks during implementation.
The department also asked for clearer guidance on required documentation and a clearer division of responsibilities among ministries, provincial departments and local authorities involved in the project.
Quang Ninh is currently reviewing and approving the investment policy and considering investor approval in line with investment regulations. Clarifying procedures is seen as necessary for the project to move into the next implementation stage.
