Phu Quoc electric train to run at 100 km/h, transport 4,500 passengers hourly

The Phu Quoc light rail line will feature three cars, utilize zero-emission energy, reach a maximum speed of 100 km/h, and transport approximately 4,500 passengers hourly.

This information was announced by the investor, Sun Group, at the calibration rail installation ceremony on 11/8, marking a significant step nearly eight months into the project's implementation.

Engineers installing calibration rails for the Phu Quoc light rail line. *Photo: Sun Group*

Upon commercial operation, the light rail line is expected to drastically reduce travel time from Phu Quoc International Airport to the southern island's resorts, entertainment areas, and the APEC Convention Center to approximately 20 minutes. This efficiency is crucial for enhancing connectivity and supporting the island's growing tourism and event infrastructure, especially with APEC 2027 approaching.

The 17,59 km long project utilizes international standard 1,435 mm gauge rails, which are 180 mm high and 25 m long, featuring specialized 60R2 grooves. The system integrates a 1,3 km elevated section, a 14,3 km ground section, and an approximately 2 km underground segment, showcasing a blend of engineering solutions to adapt to Phu Quoc's diverse terrain.

A street view of the elevated electric train line in Phu Quoc. *Photo: Sun Group*

The rails are supplied and installed by a joint venture between Vietnam Railways Corporation and China Railway Construction Corporation Limited (CRCC16). Tran Anh Tuan, Deputy General Director of Vietnam Railways Corporation, highlighted the project's unique challenges. He noted that while his unit has completed many infrastructure projects, the Phu Quoc light rail is unprecedented due to its challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions. This project also marks the first application of urban electric train technology in Vietnam, setting a new benchmark for public transportation in the country.

Following the recent calibration rail installation, the main system construction is slated to begin in October. Work will commence with the ground section, then proceed to the elevated and underground segments. The project, with a total investment nearing 9,000 billion dong, has already disbursed approximately 1,800 billion dong by early August. The investor and contractors are concurrently building bridges, tunnels, and roadbeds to ensure the project meets its operational deadline, aiming for completion in about one year to serve APEC 2027.