Hanoi to Launch Extensive Metro Network to Ease Congestion
Hà Nội is set to transform its transportation infrastructure with plans for 14 metro lines spanning over 400km. This network aims to handle at least 45% of urban travel demand, significantly alleviating road congestion and changing how residents navigate the capital, according to Lê Trung Hiếu, Deputy Director of the municipal Department of Finance. This effort is seen as a strategic shift from a road-based to a railway corridor-oriented city.
Currently, Hà Nội’s transport system struggles under the weight of its 8.5 million residents and nearly 8 million motor vehicles. Traffic congestion costs the city between US$1.2 and 1.5 billion annually, or 3–5% of GRDP, as shown by studies from the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Transport Development and Strategy Institute. Without this fundamental shift, Hiếu warns that Hà Nội may face mechanical congestion in the coming decade, crippling existing infrastructure.
Hiếu highlighted the unmatched capacity and efficiency of metro systems, stating that a single line can carry 40,000 to 60,000 passengers per hour in each direction. He acknowledged the steep construction costs, estimating $150–200 million per km for underground sections and $80–120 million per km for elevated ones. Despite this, the socio-economic benefits, such as reduced congestion and pollution, are significant.
Realizing the 14-line metro network presents challenges, including financing and project management. Hiếu stressed the importance of integrating metro development with Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) to maximise efficiency and financial sustainability. This involves restructuring the city along metro corridors, developing TOD zones, and creating legal frameworks and land valuation mechanisms to harness the benefits.
Looking forward, Hà Nội plans to issue these frameworks and leverage land value increments around key metro stations. Recouping 20–30% of initial investment through value capture could significantly contribute to project funding. Metro investment is part of a broader strategy that includes improving traffic organisation, vehicle management, and multimodal connections, reported Vietnam News.
Key Takeaways
- Hà Nội plans 14 metro lines to ease traffic woes.
- Traffic congestion costs reach US$1.5 billion yearly.
- TOD integration is vital for metro system success.
Adapted by ASEAN Now from Vietnam News 2025-11-13
Source: https://aseannow.com/topic/1378728-hanoi-to-launch-extensive-metro-network-to-ease-congestion/
