Hanoi\'s Department of Planning and Architecture on August 3 announced plans for an urban rail system.

Under the plan, the municipal People\'s Committee has approved the blueprints for a metro line proposed by Systra Company, which include two sections, one overground (more than 8km) and one underground (nearly 4km).

Hanoi\'s first metro line will run overground from Nhon in the suburban district of Tu Liem to Kim Ma Street in Cau Giay District, then underground to Ha Noi Railway Station at the end of Tran Hung Dao Street.

There will be 8 metro stations located in Nhon, Minh Khai, Phu Dien, Cau Dien, Le Duc Tho, Ha Noi National University, Chua Ha and Cau Giay.

Construction of the 12km long Nhon - Hanoi Railway Station metro line started last September.

It is expected to improve transport in the city when it goes into operation in 2016.