Government mulls 250 kph transnational railway
In this article (5)
The Ministries of Planning and Investment and Transport will study the possibility of building high-speed rail across Vietnam to transport both passengers and cargo.
The dual-gauge railway, with design speeds of 250 kilometers per hour and operational speeds of 180-225 kph, is required as rail only carries 6% of passengers and 1.4% of cargo on the north-south route, the planning ministry said.
When completed it would be a key means of transport capable of carrying large volumes of cargo, connect major economic centers and boost growth, it said.
It suggested that the railroad be built under a public-private partnership and funded partly by auctioning lands near the 50 stations along the route.
The 250-kph option has been suggested by a consultancy consortium over a 350-kph option which can only transport passengers.
Though costing more to build, it would have a higher chance of recouping the investment thanks to cargo transport, the consortium comprising the University of Transport and Communications Consultancy and Construction, Germany’s Evo mc, Ove Arup & Partners Hong Kong, and Hung Phu Trading and Construction Consultant said.
They will respectively cost US$62.7-64.8 billion and $58.7 billion.
Since 2019 officials have been considering the transnational rail since roads and airports are becoming increasingly overloaded.
Questions & Answers
Q.Which government bodies are investigating the possibility of constructing a high-speed railway?
Which government bodies are investigating the possibility of constructing a high-speed railway?
The Ministries of Planning and Investment and Transport are jointly studying the feasibility of building a high-speed rail network across Vietnam. This initiative aims to enhance transportation for both passengers and cargo across the country.
Q.What is the rationale behind opting for a 250 kph railway design over a 350 kph alternative?
What is the rationale behind opting for a 250 kph railway design over a 350 kph alternative?
The 250 kph option was suggested because it can transport both passengers and cargo, unlike the 350 kph option which is only for passengers. This dual capability offers a higher chance of recouping the investment despite a greater construction cost.
Q.How is the government proposing to fund the construction of this railway project?
How is the government proposing to fund the construction of this railway project?
The government is suggesting that the railroad be built under a public-private partnership model. Part of the funding could also come from auctioning lands situated near the 50 proposed stations along the railway route.
Q.Why has the consideration for a transnational rail system gained importance since 2019?
Why has the consideration for a transnational rail system gained importance since 2019?
Officials have been considering the transnational rail since 2019 because existing roads and airports are becoming increasingly overloaded. This new railway aims to alleviate pressure on current transport infrastructure and boost overall capacity.
Reader pulse
Will this rail boost retail?
18,267 votes so far