Phu Quoc light rail speeds up, eyes June 2027 trial ahead of APEC summit
The light rail transit project on Vietnam's largest island of Phu Quoc is rapidly constructed amid challenging geology and weather conditions.
The 17.5km Light Rail Transit (LRT) project in Phu Quoc, Vietnam, aims to streamline travel between the island's international airport and the APEC International Conference and Exhibition Center by June 2027, ahead of the APEC Summit. The BOT-developed project, with an investment of nearly VND9 trillion (US$342 million), is currently in its construction phase.
Contractors are focusing on three key components: bridges, tunnels, and the roadbed. Over 63% of bridge pier foundations and 56% of pier construction have been completed. Meanwhile, 97% of the roadbed excavation and formation are finished, with sand filling also at 97%. Earth filling is at 79%, with pavement structures and technical infrastructure expected to follow once the roadbed is completed.
Construction has faced challenges due to Phu Quoc's geological conditions and heavy rainfall. The project teams have had to adapt to hard soil and rock layers in tunnels, switching from the original Larsen steel sheet piling method to open excavation. This change has increased the risk of slope instability and soil erosion, requiring continuous pumping and erosion control measures.
The LRT is a crucial component of the island's preparations for the APEC Economic Leaders Week 2027, which Phu Quoc is set to host. By completing in June 2027, the LRT will reduce travel time between the airport and the island's south to approximately 20 minutes, providing an additional public transport option for residents and visitors.
Written by urgent.news from VnExpress International's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
