LRT Project Shaping Phu Quoc’s Future: Green Transport, TOD and Global Standards
Phu Quoc emerges not only as a tourism paradise ahead of the 2027 APEC Forum, but also as one of the leading examples of smart urbanization and green transportation models. This cooperation between Chinese train giant CRRC Dalian and Vietnamese Sun Group encompasses almost every corner of the LRT (Light Rail System) project, which will radically change the transportation infrastructure of the island. The project promises much more than just building a line: It is an efficient example of the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, implementing the Transportation Oriented Development (TOD) approach in practice and accelerating regional development.
Among the highlights at the entrance are a total of 14 specially designed train sets and 6 stations to be built on the 17.56 kilometer route. In the first phase, the investment worth approximately VND 9 trillion will establish the connection between Phu Quoc International Airport and the APEC Convention and Exhibition Center. This stands out as a TOD projection that directly supports the island’s tourism economy. The geography and climate conditions specific to the island necessitate comfort-oriented features such as the use of materials resistant to seawater corrosion and panoramic dual-zone windows in the train design.
This investment, which is compatible with digitalization and sustainability goals, turns Phu Quoc from just a holiday destination into a global transportation base. When integrated with tourism regions centered in the south, the impact it will have on real estate values and the local economy will be felt on a regional scale.
Features of the First Line: A Strategic Linkage and TOD Approach
The first phase of the project covers a route of 17.56 kilometers, of which 14.81 kilometers is at ground level, while the remaining section passes through underground and elevated tunnels. This design meets Phu Quoc’s need for construction that is resistant to coastal location and marine influence. The line, which will serve with 6 stations in total, offers a fast and safe public transportation solution that will increase urban mobility and facilitate transportation to public transportation.
CRRC Dalian’s production trains were designed as 3-car electric sets that can reach speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour. This speed provides sufficient capacity to accommodate Phu Quoc’s increased mobility during the tourist season, while aligning with energy-efficient technologies and green transportation goals. The island’s special design needs are also evident in the exterior and interior design of the trains: seawater-resistant materials and large windows offering panoramic views emphasize comfort. Additionally, large luggage racks offer practicality for tourists.
Transportation Oriented Development (TOD) and Economic Growth Dynamics
This project goes beyond being just a transportation infrastructure and is transformed into an urban transformation model integrated with TOD principles. The line is expected to bring together tourism and entertainment centers, increase housing values and create a new economic growth momentum that will trigger the regional economy. The connection between the airport and the congress center will provide a shorter and more comfortable access for international visitors, while creating a new market and employment potential for local businesses. The TOD approach aims for sustainable growth that preserves the integrity of the island by ensuring that residential, commercial and office areas work in synergy with each other.
In line with the vision of An Giang provincial special economic zone, the investment package sets out a comprehensive program exceeding VND137 trillion. LRT has a critical share in this investment and its main goal is to turn transportation-oriented development into a concrete success in the region. This approach will create a game-changing effect that will create added value for transportation infrastructure, property values, tourism flows and the local workforce.
Technical Equipment and Operational Preparations
Technical highlights of the project include line length and ground resistance to corrosive conditions. Within the 17.56 km line, there is a long section running at ground level and the passage of underground and tunnels. This design is critical to supporting safety and sustainability goals in the island’s coastal areas. With double-paned panoramic windows, passengers are offered both more light and the enjoyment of the sea view. Large luggage racks stand out as an important comfort element for tourist passengers.
Electrifying the trains significantly reduces emissions and strengthens Phu Quoc’s compliance with green urbanism goals. CRRC Dalian’s delivery dates and maintenance solutions facilitate the commissioning of the project in compliance with global standards. Production capacity provides operational reliability by offering flexibility according to changing demand. This offers a safe and convenient transportation experience for both local authorities and tourists.
Environment, Community and Social Impact
Green transportation goals are not limited to energy savings only; It also focuses on reducing environmental impacts, improving air quality and minimizing noise pollution. The project will create new job opportunities for local communities and strengthen local supply chains during construction. In addition, the positioning of lines and stations provides easy access to tourist destinations and improves the quality of daily life of the local people. In this context, impacts such as tax stands and employment opportunities that contribute to the local economy increase the social value of the project.
Risks, Challenges and Management Strategies
As with every major infrastructure project, this LRT project has its own challenges. Financial flows, permits required for construction, and environmental impact assessment processes can put pressure on schedule and budget. However, the collaboration between SUN Group and CRRC Dalian is designed to minimize these risks with flexible production plans and scalable maintenance solutions. Strategies focused on lean production principles, risk sharing and local capacity development are applied in project management. There is a deepened operational preparation process with security protocols, emergency plans and built-in simulations to minimize transportation disruptions during tunnel passages.
Investing in the Future: Quick Start, Long-Term Advantages
Once the first trains are delivered and the line is completed by January 2027, Phu Quoc will quickly become operational ahead of the APEC Forum. This speed will enable the island to be positioned as a modern transportation base from scratch. Sun Group emphasizes that it will carry the project to global standards with its flexible production capacity and maintenance solutions in this process. As a result, Phu Quoc is not just a holiday destination; It will be known as an economic center powered by technology. This transformation will create new career paths for local people, higher comfort levels for tourism and long-term effects on investor confidence.
Türkiye Connection and Global Perspective
When we look at the global context of this project, we see that it creates an exemplary model in terms of rail systems and green financing dynamics. This project, financed through the BOT model, has the potential to attract international investor interest. It offers an inspiring framework for similar-scale sustainable projects in regions such as Türkiye. This approach, which brings together technology and infrastructure while preserving the natural beauty of the island, creates a road map compatible with global urbanization trends. In this respect, the success of the Phu Quoc LRT stands out as an example for considering sustainable transport investments not only for Vietnam, but also regionally and globally.
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