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Ho Chi Minh City has officially launched its first metro line, marking a transformative moment for urban transport in Vietnam’s economic hub. This is the first metro line for Vietnam’s economic capital, two months after its opening on 22 December 2024. The line spans 19.7 kilometres from Ben Thanh Market to Suoi Tien Theme Park, connecting 14 stations—three underground and 11 elevated. The project, a collaboration between Vietnam and Japan, aims to ease the city’s notorious traffic congestion, with officials hailing it as a “new era” for public transport. The metro line, part of a broader plan for eight lines totalling 220 kilometres, has been decades in the making. Planning began in the early 2000s, with construction starting in 2012 after Japan pledged GBP 1.2 billion in loans—covering 85% of the GBP 1.4 billion cost. Hitachi supplied 17 three-car trains, capable of carrying 930 passengers each, while Systra provided consultancy for design, safety, and testing. Trial runs began in December 2024, paving the way for the public opening. The line is expected to serve up to 170,000 passengers daily in its first year, with projections rising to 635,000 by 2035. The project faced significant hurdles, including funding disputes, land acquisition issues, and delays that pushed the timeline from an initial 2017 target. Costs ballooned from early estimates, reflecting the complexity of building in a densely populated urban area. Despite these setbacks, Vietnamese and Japanese officials celebrated the launch as a testament to perseverance. “This is a symbol of modernisation,” said a government spokesperson, noting that Line 1 is Vietnam’s first fully integrated metro system, complete with advanced safety and operational standards. For Ho Chi Minh City’s 9 million residents, the metro offers a much-needed alternative to motorbikes and buses, which dominate its gridlocked streets. The line cuts travel time between the city centre and eastern districts, with fares starting at GBP 0.30. Systra’s project director, Pierre-Yves Martin, described it as “a game-changer for sustainable transport,” highlighting features like energy-efficient trains and accessibility for disabled passengers. The metro also promises environmental benefits, reducing reliance on fossil fuel-powered vehicles. With Line 1 operational, attention turns to Line 2, a 11.2-kilometre route from Ben Thanh to Tham Luong, set for construction in 2026. Funding remains a challenge, but officials are optimistic, buoyed by Line 1’s success. For now, Ho Chi Minh City’s metro stands as a beacon of progress, offering a glimpse of a less congested, more connected future. |
