Hanoi proposes metro line that replaces BRT

Hanoi plans to build a metro line on Le Van Luong Street to replace the existing BRT (bus rapid transit) line, as part of its quest to increase public transport options.
The Hanoi People’s Committee is gathering public opinion regarding adjustments to the capital’s planning until 2045, with vision until 2065, where public transport should satisfy 27-31% of travel demand by 2025, with public buses serving 18-19% of demand and metro lines 4-7%.

Public transport currently serves 9.5% of travel demand.

By 2030, the percentage should rise to 35-40%, with buses accounting for 20% of travel demand and urban railways 10-14%.

Besides 10 urban railway lines that have already been planned, six more are being considered, including one along Le Van Luong Street to replace the BRT line there.

As it is still a proposal, it has not been confirmed whether the urban railway line would be underground or not, and the timeline of its construction has not been determined.

Le Van Luong Street spans 2 kilometers long and 11.25 meters wide in each direction, with dividers spanning 3-7 meters. There are many offices and high-rise buildings along the road.

Regarding the BRT line running on the street, the line's management unit said it is operating effectively. However, social opinions are still divided on whether the line is truly efficient and appropriate for Hanoi.

Hanoi plans to create 11 BRT lines until 2030, but so far there has been only one line in operation.

The capital plans to have 10 urban railway lines by 2030, spanning 417 km, with 342 km elevated sections and 75 km underground.

So far, only the Cat Linh-Ha Dong line is operational, while the Nhon-Hanoi Station line is expected to have its elevated section operational in April next year.

Adjustments to the capital’s planning until 2045, with vision until 2065, is expected to be presented before the government in December, and before the National Assembly in 2024.