In response to queries from Quang Ninh province voters regarding the railway line connecting to Trung Quoc, the Ministry of Construction stated that the Railway Network Master Plan for 2021-2030, with a vision to 2050, designates the Hai Phong - Ha Long - Mong Cai railway line. This line, approximately 187 km long, will commence at Nam Dinh Vu station in Hai Phong and conclude in the Mong Cai area of Quang Ninh.

The line is planned to use a 1,435 mm standard gauge, be electrified, and undergo an investment study during the 2021-2030 phase.

Currently, transport along the Hai Phong - Ha Long - Mong Cai corridor relies on road and waterway. Goods are primarily moved via inland and coastal waterways due to lower costs, while passengers mainly use road transport. The Ha Long - Mong Cai expressway, currently operating with 4 lanes, is projected to meet passenger transport demands until 2040. Current traffic on this route is around 9,000 CPU, representing 20% of its designed capacity.

Ha Long ward, Quang Ninh province, viewed from above. Photo: Le Tan

The Ministry of Construction believes that investment in the Hai Phong - Ha Long - Mong Cai railway will proceed once passenger and cargo transport demands are sufficiently high. For now, goods transport prioritizes sea and river routes to minimize costs, while road transport continues to serve the majority of passenger travel needs.

Regarding investment preparation, in line with agreements between Vietnam and Trung Quoc and government directives, the Ministry of Construction has tasked the Vietnam Railway Authority with collaborating with relevant Trung Quoc authorities to develop the detailed plan for the Hai Phong - Ha Long - Mong Cai railway line. This plan is anticipated to be completed in 2026.

Concurrently with the planning efforts, the Railway Project Management Board is responsible for preparing the project’s pre-feasibility study report. This report will be submitted to competent authorities for review and feedback on the investment policy. It will detail the project's progress and required resources.

Until the railway line is invested in, the Ministry of Construction recommends that Quang Ninh continue to efficiently utilize its existing transport system, particularly inland waterway transport combined with coastal shipping and road networks. This approach aims to foster socio-economic development while ensuring seamless trade between Vietnam and Trung Quoc.

Previously, Quang Ninh province voters highlighted the strategic importance of the route for inter-regional and international connectivity, contributing to the formation of a logistics, tourism, and trade corridor between Vietnam and Trung Quoc. The voters urged prioritizing resources to implement the project before 2030, accelerating investment preparation, and initiating construction promptly.

Anh Duy