Is it suitable to apply high-tech Japanese solutions that are so expensive?
Of course, a high-tech transport system can be used for a longer time and it will not be out-dated as soon as cheaper, older technology. We have just investigated and compared the urban railway systems of other countries in ASEAN and Europe. The amount of money these countries have invested into their railway system is similar to our plans. But more important is the quality and durability of the equipment that we can attain with that money. The consultants must calculate this, before we make any decision. When will Viet Nam have an urban railway system? Recently we have officially begun construction on the first urban railway system. This is the Ben Thanh-Bien Hoa railway, whose total investment is more than US$ 700 million. This is derived from Japanese official development assistance. Next month, Japans Bank for International Co-operation will send professors to Viet Nam to assess the feasibility of the plan. As planned, we will start from Ben Thanh Market to Suoi Tien. In August, Ja
