Full trial runs start on Cat Linh-Ha Dong metro line

A fully-fledged trial of the Cat Linh-Ha Dong urban rail line began on September 20 and is scheduled to last for three to six months prior to the start of commercial operations.

It takes the train 25 minutes to travel the distance of 13.5 kilometres. (Photo: Zing)
It takes the train 25 minutes to travel the distance of 13.5 kilometres. (Photo: Zing)

It is the first metro line to be built in Hanoi and is expected to be put into service before the Lunar New Year, stated project officials.

On the first day of trial, the maiden train departed from Yen Nghia station at 6:30am and arrived at Cat Linh station 25 minutes later, stopping for one-minute at each of the 12 stations along its total length of 13.5 kilometres.

Five of the 13-strong fleet of trains were test run at ten minute intervals. The trains travel at an average speed of 30-35 kilometres per hour, with maximum speeds reaching 65 kilometres per hour.

Each train consists of four carriages and can accommodate up to 1,000 passengers.

Currently, the project contractor is installing ticket vending machines and turnstiles, testing the air-conditioning and ventilation systems and adjusting the lighting systems, lifts and escalators.

The project has costed a total of US$886 million, financed by Chinese ODA, and was originally scheduled for commercial service in 2016 but has suffered from several delays.

Fare gates are being installed at the 12 stations. (Photo: Kinh te do thi)

The trains travel at an average speed of 30-35 kilometres per hour. (Photo: Kinh te do thi)