From China to Boten passing by cities such as Oudomxay and Luang Prabang to finally Vientiane Capital, the new railway inaugurated in early 2022 has been a huge success and help for Laos PDR’s economy during this pandemic period.
Boten – Vientiane railway
The Boten–Vientiane railway (sometimes referred to as the China–Laos railway) is a 422-kilometre standard gauge electrified railway in Laos, running between the capital Vientiane and the town of Boten on the border with Yunnan, China.
The line was officially opened on 3 December 2021.
The line’s northern end is connected to the Chinese rail system in Mohan, through the Yuxi–Mohan railway. The railway ends at Vientiane south cargo station.
The Boten–Vientiane railway is an integral section of the central line on the Kunming–Singapore railway, and was constructed as part of the Belt and Road Initiative.
The first talks about the railway linking Laos and China began in 2001, with Laotian and Chinese politicians both having confirmed the plans in 2009. Lao politician of Chinese descent Somsavat Lengsavad was reportedly the driving force behind the project on the Laotian side.
Construction began at Luang Prabang on December 25, 2016.
The railway is expected to boost tourism, with passenger traffic to account for the majority of traffic on the line. The Thai province of Nong Khai is also expected to gain more visitors through the railway, as well as fruit exports from Thailand to China benefiting from reduced transportation costs.
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The newest entertainment complex in Vientiane Capital.
From luxurious condominium to cinemas, restaurants and many more convenient facilities, this new complex has since its opening been one of the most successful in Laos.
