Enhancing Connectivity: Road and Rail Developments Linking Ho Chi Minh City to Long Thanh International Airport
Introduction
As urbanization rapidly transforms Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), the pressing need to establish optimal connectivity with the forthcoming Long Thanh International Airport in Dong Nai province has emerged as a priority. The current landscape, marked by slow road travel times, underscores the urgency for efficiently developed transport infrastructure that can accommodate the anticipated surge of travelers and goods.
Coordinated Transport Infrastructure Initiatives
HCMC’s Department of Construction is actively collaborating with neighboring provinces, chiefly Dong Nai, to expedite various key transport projects. This endeavor aims to create a modern connectivity network that supports the efficient operation of Long Thanh airport, which is poised to be a major national asset. By enhancing transport infrastructure, the city seeks to facilitate better travel experiences and boost the regional economy.
Significant Road Projects
On the road front, six critical projects are currently under development to enhance connectivity to the airport:
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Ring Road 4: Spanning 206 km with four lanes, this project is a joint venture involving HCMC, Dong Nai, and Tay Ninh provinces. Scheduled to break ground in June 2026, the project is expected to be completed in 2028.
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Bien Hoa-Vung Tau Expressway: Under the oversight of the Ministry of Construction, this expressway is projected to be finished by December 2025. It will play a crucial role in streamlining transport routes to the airport.
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Ben Luc-Long Thanh Expressway: Developed by the Vietnam Expressway Corporation (VEC), completion of this expressway is anticipated by September 2026. It forms a vital link in the growing transport network.
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Expansion of HCMC-Long Thanh Expressway: This project, also led by VEC, is expected to reach basic completion in 2026, excluding the Long Thanh Bridge, which is scheduled to be finished in Q1 2027.
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Ring Road 3: Managed by HCMC, Dong Nai, and Tay Ninh, this road aims to technically open 30.5 km of its route by the end of this year, with an additional 39.5 km projected for completion by June 30, 2026.
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Provincial Road TL25C: Though facing land clearance challenges, this project is making progress with 7.6 km completed and a further 6.4 km under construction, aiming for completion in 2025.
Rail Sector Developments
In parallel to road enhancements, HCMC is focusing on modernizing its rail systems. The construction ministry is preparing for investments in the North-South high-speed railway, slated to begin in late 2026 and complete by 2035. This initiative complements plans for the Bien Hoa-Vung Tau railway, which will bolster regional connectivity.
Becamex Corporation has been tasked with studying investments in a combined freight and passenger railway linking Bau Bang to Cai Mep, expected to break ground in 2027. This railway promises to support industrial development, logistics, and enhance access to seaports.
Urban Rail Connections
To effectively link HCMC with Long Thanh airport, three key urban rail corridors have been identified:
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Metro Line No. 2: This line, connecting Ben Thanh to Tham Luong and Thu Thiem, is being developed with public investment. Construction is anticipated to start before the 14th Party Congress in January 2026, with a target completion by 2030.
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Metro Line No. 6: Planned for development with public funding, construction of the Tan Son Nhat-Phu Huu section is set for 2026, aiming to complete by 2030 to link with the Thu Thiem-Long Thanh line.
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Linking Metro Line No. 6 with Line No. 1: This extension will connect new administrative centers in Dong Nai with Long Thanh airport, ensuring comprehensive public transport access by 2030.
Challenges in Development
Despite these ambitious plans, several challenges persist. Key hurdles identified include:
- Land Clearance Issues: Many rail routes will traverse densely populated areas, posing potential disruptions to existing infrastructure and properties.
- Funding and Resource Mobilization: Securing financial backing and efficiently managing investments is crucial for project timelines.
- Technical Complexities: The intricate nature of underground metro lines demands advanced technology and careful implementation.
Additionally, Ho Chi Minh City has identified the need for coordinated transit-oriented development (TOD) strategies to enhance urban management, transport planning, and public engagement in utilizing expanding public transport options.
Strategic Measures for Progress
To address these challenges and facilitate timely project execution, HCMC is adopting strategic measures:
- Utilizing Special Mechanisms: The city plans to leverage provisions from parliamentary resolutions to streamline investment procedures for urban rail systems.
- Urban Planning Adjustments: Reviewing and aligning planning around metro stations with TOD principles will enhance integrated urban development.
- Developing Human Resources: HCMC is focused on cultivating a skilled workforce to meet the demands of a developing railway industry.
- Land Utilization Planning: Authorities will prepare a comprehensive plan for utilizing land as counterpart funding for railway projects.
By taking these steps, HCMC aims to significantly shorten project timelines, ensuring both quality and connectivity essential for the region’s future growth.