Quang Ninh voters recently submitted a proposal to the 9th session of the 15th National Assembly, urging the government to expedite research and investment in the Hai Phong - Ha Long - Mong Cai railway. This line would connect with Dong Hung (China) to enhance regional connectivity and boost border trade.

In response, the Ministry of Construction stated it has assigned the Thang Long Project Management Board to develop a pre-feasibility study. This railway is part of Vietnam's railway network plan for 2021-2025, with a vision to 2050. It will begin at Nam Dinh Vu station (Hai Phong) and terminate in Mong Cai (Quang Ninh). The project is expected to commence after 2030, using a 1,435 mm gauge and electrification.

To implement a general agreement between Vietnam and China, the Ministry of Construction has also assigned the Vietnam Railway Administration to coordinate detailed planning with China.

Ha Long Station on the Yen Vien - Ha Long railway line. Photo: Pham Chieu

Ha Long Station on the Yen Vien - Ha Long railway line. Photo: Pham Chieu

Upon completion, the Hai Phong - Ha Long - Mong Cai railway is expected to boost border trade, particularly facilitating the export of agricultural, forestry, and aquatic products to China. Currently, this corridor relies on road and waterway transport. Most goods are transported by inland and coastal waterways due to lower costs. The newly opened Ha Long - Mong Cai expressway, a four-lane highway with a capacity of 45,000 CPU, is currently operating at around 9,000 CPU, or 20% capacity.

According to the plan, the Hai Phong - Ha Long - Mong Cai corridor will incorporate sea, road, and rail transport. Initially, sea and river transport will be prioritized for goods to reduce costs and ensure safety, while passenger transport will primarily use roads. The railway will be developed when international intermodal transport demand increases.

Pending implementation, the Ministry of Construction has suggested Quang Ninh maximize the use of existing infrastructure, especially inland waterway and coastal shipping, and the road system, to promote bilateral economic cooperation. This will also help stabilize the export of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products from southern provinces to China.

Anh Duy