Mega High-Speed Rail Project Advances Vietnam’s Infrastructure Development

Vietnamese authorities are taking decisive steps to advance the Mega High-Speed Rail Project, aiming to redefine the nation’s transport landscape. With an estimated cost of $67.34 billion, the ambitious railway is expected to enhance connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and modernize infrastructure. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The ruling Party and Government have reiterated their commitment to prioritizing Vietnamese enterprises in all phases of the project. Leading domestic construction firms, although cautious, have expressed confidence in their ability to meet stringent demands. They see this as a chance to reduce dependence on foreign contractors.

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Vũ Hồng Phương, director of the Railway Project Management Unit, emphasized the historical importance of this venture. Discussions have been ongoing for over 18 years, culminating in a pre-feasibility report approved by the Communist Party Central Committee earlier this year. Currently under review by the National Assembly, the project has garnered widespread public interest.

Bold Infrastructure Plans for the Mega High-Speed Rail Project

The proposed railway, spanning 1,541 kilometers, will connect Ngọc Hồi Station in Hà Nội to Thủ Thiêm Station in HCM City. Designed for 350kph speeds, the double-track line will include 23 passenger stations and five freight hubs, integrating both passenger and cargo needs.

The Party Central Committee has set clear objectives: securing parliamentary approval by 2024, starting construction in 2027, and completing basic infrastructure by 2035. Initial construction will prioritize the Hà Nội-Vinh and Nha Trang-HCM City segments, addressing immediate transport demands.

Domestic Enterprises Poised for Key Roles in the Mega High-Speed Rail Project

Director Phương underscored the Government’s strategy to empower Vietnamese businesses, emphasizing financial independence. The project’s Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model is designed to ensure transparency and competition. Rigorous contractor selection criteria will foster fairness and efficiency during implementation.

Special workforce training programs and collaborations with international institutions are being proposed to strengthen domestic expertise. Lessons learned from previous infrastructure projects, such as the North-South Expressway, will inform material sourcing policies to minimize reliance on imports.

Local Contractors Display Confidence and Cooperation

Nguyễn Quốc Hiệp, chairman of the Việt Nam Construction Contractors Association, highlighted the progress domestic firms have made. He noted successful completion of major infrastructure projects, though he acknowledged the unique technological demands of the high-speed railway. Hiệp called for regulatory adjustments to allow capable Vietnamese companies to take on substantial roles.

Colonel Nguyễn Tuấn Anh of Trường Sơn Construction Corporation emphasized the growing collaboration among local contractors. Improved unity, coupled with policy support, will enhance their ability to deliver on this transformative project.

Tackling Labour and Training Challenges

The project requires around 240,000 skilled workers, 13,800 operational staff, and 2,000 consultants. Mai Thanh Phương, chairman of the Railway Construction Corporation, suggested importing skilled labor as an interim solution. Partnerships with universities aim to train a new generation of Vietnamese engineers.

Nguyễn Quang Huy, CEO of Đèo Cả Group, has spearheaded the establishment of a research and training institute focused on railway engineering. Huy also urged the Government to promptly issue contractor standards to facilitate international collaboration.

Addressing Land Clearance and Financial Hurdles

Land clearance has emerged as a recurring obstacle. Army Colonel Phan Phú, chairman of the Ministry of Defence Corporation 319, recommended initiating land recovery during the planning phase. Improved legal frameworks and coordination with local authorities will be crucial for timely resettlement and compensation.

Financial challenges remain a significant concern for domestic enterprises. Trần Cao Sơn, deputy general director of Central Construction Group, raised questions about access to loans and financial incentives. He called for transparent financial oversight to mitigate risks and ensure efficient resource allocation.

A National Symbol of Progress

Despite challenges, optimism remains high. Vietnamese businesses have shown resilience and adaptability, particularly in infrastructure development. The Mega High-Speed Rail Project symbolizes national progress, requiring unified efforts from the Government, enterprises, and experts. Success will not only reshape Vietnam’s transport future but also demonstrate the nation’s capacity for innovation and growth.

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