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French Ambassador to Vietnam, Olivier Brochet. (Photo: To quoc)

At the press conference, the French Ambassador to Vietnam, Olivier Brochet, announced that the overground section of Hanoi's urban railway line No. 3, which includes eight stations and connects Nhon to Cau Giay, commenced commercial operations on August 8. This significant event represents a milestone in the project, symbolizing the collaborative efforts between France and Vietnam in sustainable urban transportation.

“The launch of the overground section of Hanoi's urban railway line No. 3, also known as Vietnam's line No. 2, showcases the capability of the French-Vietnamese team to successfully execute ambitious infrastructure projects in the rail transport sector. It further reflects France's dedication to supporting Vietnam's shift to a carbon-neutral economy, particularly by offering technical solutions that adhere to the most stringent international standards,” said Ambassador Olivier Brochet.

Spanning 8km, the elevated section is now commercially operational, serving as an eco-friendly transportation option and helping to alleviate traffic congestion in Hanoi. The underground segment, extending to the next four stations up to Hanoi Station, is slated to become operational by the end of 2027.

Nguyen Ba Son, Deputy Head of the Hanoi Urban Railway Management Board, expressed his gratitude towards the French Government for their unwavering support, financial assistance, and active participation during the development of the urban railway project. He also thanked the French consultants, contractors, and teams for their dedication, expertise, and steadfast commitment, which have been instrumental in propelling the project forward and ensuring its high standards.

Nguyen Ba Son states that the project exemplifies the resolve and commitment of Vietnam and France to establish a modern and sustainable transportation system. The financial support from the French Government is a testament to the amicable and collaborative relationship between the two nations. It is crucial for both parties to sustain close and seamless coordination to proceed with the construction of the 4km underground segment of urban railway line No. 3, which is among the project's most intricate components.

Eric Alix, General Director of RATP Smart Systems, a contractor participating in the project, hopes that the project will contribute to modernizing the transportation system in Vietnam, meeting the country's development needs.

Delegates at the event (Photo: To quoc)

Hanoi's Urban Railway Line No. 3 has secured financial backing from France, receiving preferential loans from the French Treasury General Directorate (Ministry of Economics, Finance and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty) and the French Development Agency for Vietnam, valued at 355 million euros and 159 million euros respectively. Additionally, the Asian Development Bank and the European Investment Bank are co-financing the project.

The project utilizes the technology and expertise of prominent French firms in the industry, including Alstom, Thales, and Colas Rail, which supply rolling stock, signaling systems, rails, and electromechanical equipment for stations. RATP Smart Systems is responsible for the ticketing card system. Systra assists the Hanoi Urban Railway Management Board (MRB) in project management as a general consultant. Bureau Veritas, APAVE, and Certifer are involved in certifying the system's safety.

The extension of Hanoi's urban railway line No. 3 is set to proceed as planned, with an additional 8km stretch going underground beneath Tran Hung Dao Street towards the southern part of Hanoi, ending in Hoang Mai. This expansion will receive financial backing from European contributors, including the French Development Agency, the European Investment Bank, and the Asian Development Bank.

During the press conference, French contractors' representatives discussed their expertise in the construction, operation, maintenance, and integration of various urban transportation modes to establish an urban transport network that aligns with sustainable development objectives, contributing to pollution reduction and enhanced air quality in the city. These companies are keen to collaborate with Hanoi's universities to offer internship opportunities for construction industry students.

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