After storm No. 3 swept through, the Hanoi - Lao Cai railway, the vital route connecting the capital with the Northwest region, suffered heavy damage. Hundreds of points along the route were deeply flooded and severely eroded, completely paralyzing traffic. Images of warped railways and washed-away bridges left a deep impression of the terrible devastation caused by nature.
Faced with this situation, the railway industry quickly mobilized manpower, machinery and equipment to overcome the consequences. Engineers and workers worked day and night, braving the rain and wind to repair the tracks and bridges. Thanks to their tireless efforts, the railway line was reopened on September 15.
Passenger trains on the Hanoi - Lao Cai route will be restored after many days of suspension due to the impact of storm No. 3.
However, due to the extent of the damage, many sections of the track are still weak and cannot guarantee high-speed trains. Trains have to move slowly, at a speed of only about 10-15km/h, which significantly prolongs the journey time. This has caused many difficulties for passengers, especially those who need to travel urgently.
Despite many obstacles, the railway industry is still making every effort to completely overcome the consequences of the storm and flood, ensuring absolute safety for passengers. Relevant units are urgently completing the remaining items, aiming to soon bring the Hanoi - Lao Cai railway back to normal operation.
According to the announced schedule, train SP3 departs from Hanoi station at 22:00 and arrives at Lao Cai station at 5:55; train SP4 departs from Lao Cai station at 21:30 and arrives at Hanoi station at 5:25. However, due to a slow-running point, the train will depart earlier, estimated to be 30-60 minutes.
However, the journey will take 30-60 minutes longer than usual to ensure safety.
When there is a specific train schedule, the railway industry will notify passengers via the phone number registered when purchasing tickets.
Currently, ticket prices for the SP3/SP4 train pair range from 280,000-420,000 VND/ticket/trip depending on seat type, carriage type, departure date and travel direction.
The railway also sells bus tickets for transfers from Lao Cai station to points in Sapa within a 2km radius of the Stone Church or vice versa, the service price is 55,000 VND/ticket/trip. Passengers can buy bus tickets when buying train tickets directly or online.
