The Ministry of Construction announced a roadshow on 15/5 to gauge international market interest and capabilities for package TV02, which involves preparing the feasibility study report. The investor plans to offer a project overview, implementation status, objectives, requirements, and selection criteria for TV02 contractors.

The feasibility study will define critical parameters, including technology, scale, route alignment, total investment, component project division, and overall technical design. This will enable authorities to select appropriate investment models, such as public investment, public-private partnerships (PPP), and business investment, ensuring financial viability, timely progress, and domestic business involvement.

Following government directives, the selection process for the feasibility study consultant must conclude in Q2. This will pave the way for subsequent project phases and a planned groundbreaking by year-end.

KTX high-speed train in South Korea. Photo: *KoreaRailway*.

Alongside investment preparations, local authorities must proactively plan economic development zones along the route to maximize the high-speed railway's benefits.

To expedite progress, the project employs 20 specific mechanisms and policies. These focus on key objectives: shortening investment preparation, maximizing social resource mobilization, strengthening decentralization, developing human resources, and promoting the domestic railway industry.

The north-south high-speed railway project stretches 1,541 km, traversing 15 provinces and cities (previously 20 before administrative restructuring). This entirely new double-track line will feature a 1,435 mm gauge, a design speed of 350 km/h, and an axle load of 22,5 tons. It will comprise 23 passenger stations and 5 freight stations, equipped with integrated, modern rolling stock and systems.

The project's preliminary total investment surpasses 1,713,540 billion VND, equivalent to 67,34 billion USD. Funding will come from the state budget and other legal capital sources.

The project will proceed through public investment, integrating public-private partnerships (PPP) and business investment for appropriate components. The feasibility study is scheduled to commence in 2025, with the entire line aiming for substantial completion by 2035.

Doan Loan