European Union grants €10 million for Hanoi Metro Line 3 expansion

The funding underscores the EU's commitment to supporting sustainable urban transport solutions in Southeast Asia's rapidly growing cities. Hanoi's Metro Line 3, a 12.5-kilometre transit corridor featuring 12 stations, represents a significant addition to the city's public transport network serving western districts.

The line comprises eight elevated stations and four underground stations, with its elevated section connecting Nhon to Cau Giay commencing commercial operations in August 2024. The operational segment has already established itself as a high-capacity transport alternative, easing congestion in western Hanoi and providing residents with improved mobility options.

The EU grant aims to facilitate preparatory works for extending the metro line further, capitalising on the success of the initial phase. Such extensions are viewed as critical infrastructure investments that can accommodate Hanoi's expanding urban population and reduce reliance on private vehicles.

The development aligns with broader regional trends emphasizing mass rapid transit systems. Vietnam's capital has been progressively expanding its metro network, with multiple lines in various stages of construction and planning. The additional funding reflects international recognition of the project's importance for urban development and environmental sustainability.

Photo: A Hanoi Metro Line 3 train runs on the elevated section over Xuan Thuy road, Cau Giay, Hanoi, August 2024. Tttrung via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0).