Groundbreaking of Metro Line 2 Nam Thang Long – Tran Hung Dao: A Historic Turning Point for Hanoi's Urban Transport

Hanoi, October 10, 2025 – On the morning of October 9, 2025, the Hanoi People's Committee officially held the groundbreaking ceremony for Urban Railway Project Line 2, section Nam Thang Long – Tran Hung Dao. This is one of the key infrastructure projects, strategically significant in addressing traffic congestion, promoting socio-economic development, and improving the quality of life for the capital's residents. With a massive total investment and an underground route through the Old Quarter, the project promises to reshape Hanoi's urban transport landscape in the future.

Project Overview and Investment Scale:

Metro Line 2, the Nam Thang Long – Tran Hung Dao section, spans approximately 10.9 km. Of this, 1.94 km will be elevated, and the remaining 8.9 km will run underground, beneath the central area and Hanoi's Old Quarter. The entire line will feature 10 stations, with 2 elevated and 8 underground stations, strategically located along key streets such as Hang Giay, Hang Buom, Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, Dinh Tien Hoang, and Tran Hung Dao.

The total investment for the project amounts to over VND 35,600 billion (approximately USD 1.45 billion). Funding is primarily sourced through an Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), supplemented by counterpart funds from Hanoi's city budget. The project is expected to be completed by 2029, marking a significant milestone in modernizing the city's public transportation system.

Technical Specifications and Construction Challenges:

Constructing the underground section through Hanoi's Old Quarter presents immense technical challenges. This area has a high density of population and architectural structures, including many ancient buildings of high historical and cultural value. Therefore, construction technology must ensure absolute safety for existing structures, minimizing impacts on residents' lives and the urban landscape. Advanced tunneling methods, such as the use of Tunnel Boring Machines (TBM), will be employed to ensure project progress and quality.

Strategic Importance and Development Impact:

1. Traffic Congestion Reduction: Once operational, Metro Line 2 will provide a modern, high-speed public transport option, significantly reducing the number of private vehicles on the roads, thereby alleviating congestion and environmental pollution.
2. Infrastructure Connectivity: This metro line will not only serve the daily commuting needs of residents but also connect new urban areas with the historic center, facilitating commercial, tourism, and service development. In the future, Line 2 is also planned to extend to Noi Bai International Airport, enhancing regional connectivity and boosting economic growth.
3. Sustainable Urban Development: The project is part of Hanoi's comprehensive strategy to develop a modern urban railway system, with the goal of completing 8 metro lines totaling approximately 130 km by 2030. This network is expected to meet 25-30% of the city's public transport demand, contributing to building a green, smart, and sustainable city.
4. Stimulating the Construction Industry: The implementation of this large-scale project also provides impetus for the construction industry, particularly in specialized materials and equipment. Demand for steel, concrete, and other construction materials will increase, encouraging domestic and international businesses to participate in the supply chain.

Challenges and Outlook:

Despite its numerous benefits, the project also faces considerable challenges. Experience from previous metro projects in Hanoi (such as Cat Linh – Ha Dong or Nhon – Hanoi Station) indicates that delays are a common issue. Factors such as site clearance, design adjustments, and complex project management can affect completion timelines. However, with financial support from JICA and accumulated experience, there is an expectation that the project will be implemented more efficiently.

Conclusion:

The groundbreaking of Metro Line 2 Nam Thang Long – Tran Hung Dao is a significant milestone, affirming Hanoi's determination to build a modern, sustainable public transportation system. The project not only promises to address urgent traffic issues but also opens up new development opportunities for the capital, enhancing Hanoi's position as a leading economic and cultural hub in the region. The project's success will be a testament to Vietnam's capacity for managing and executing large-scale infrastructure projects, while also strengthening international cooperation in urban development.

References:

• vnexpress.net
• dantri.com.vn
• vietnamlawmagazine.vn
• vietnamnet.vn
• en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HanoiMetroLine_3
• en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanoi_Metro