The Vietnamese government has reportedly revived a high-speed rail project to attach the north and south of the country.
The project was first proposed almost 20 years ago, however the estimated cost of $56 billion was considered too high and the proposal was rejected in 2010.
However, in 2016, a pre-feasibility study analyzed the impact of this line on Vietnam’s economy and its ability to finance it. It was concluded that given the country’s rapid economic growth, this line was realistic.
Part of the study was funded by the Japanese government, which is enthusiastic about selling its “missiles” to Vietnam as a part of the project.
The railway line will reduce rail travel time from Hanoi in northern Vietnam to Ho Chi Minh City within the south from 30 hours to 5 and a half hours. In 2020-2030, the primary stage of a double-track standard-gauge railway can be built, with an operating speed of 160 to 200 kilometers per hour. Officials hope all the North-South line can be accomplished by 2050 and reach speeds of 350 kilometers per hour. Maybe finally shorten travel time between Hanoi and Saigon to lower than eight hours in comparison with around 30 hours currently.
(Various sources)
