The initial metro line in Ho Chi Minh City commences operation following over a decade of setbacks.
A multitude of individuals queued up to be among the initial passengers boarding Metro Line 1, as it commenced operations in Ho Chi Minh City on a Sunday, as reported by the state-owned news agency Viet Nam News.
The metro line spans from the bustling Ben Thanh market in the city center to the Soui Tien Theme Park beyond its northwestern border, featuring 14 stops - three underground and 11 above ground.
City official Bui Xuan Cuong celebrated the line's inauguration at a ceremony, noting that after 17 years of planning and 12 years of construction, this metro line launch represented a substantial milestone in the development of urban transportation within the city.
The Vietnamese government anticipates that the metro system will alleviate traffic in the famously congested city, home to approximately 9 million inhabitants.
While eight lines are on the agenda, the authorities have yet to disclose opening dates for the remaining ones.
As a promotional measure, passengers will enjoy complimentary rides during the initial month, and there will be seamless connections to new electric buses that line up at the metro stops.
After the free period, fares will range from 7,000 to 20,000 dong (roughly 27 to 79 cents) based on distance, while senior citizens and disabled individuals will travel at no cost. Students and travelers with e-payment apps will receive discounts.
Trains will operate daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Ho Chi Minh City's transit infrastructure has seen a rivalry between Japan and China, both aiming to increase their impact in Asia. Even though Japan initially entered the fray, investing 43.7 trillion Vietnamese dong ($1.72 billion) into the Ho Chi Minh City project, Hanoi's China-supported system surpassed it by launching the first metro line in 2021. Construction on Hanoi's second metro line is scheduled to commence in 2025.
This year, the Vietnamese government unveiled ambitious plans to establish two high-speed rail lines linking with China, the nation's top trading partner. Furthermore, there are plans to connect Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City by high-speed trains.
The metro system is expected to encourage travel within the city, making it easier for its 9 million inhabitants. After enjoying free rides during the first month, passengers will pay fares ranging from 27 to 79 cents based on distance.
With high-speed rail lines in the plans, Vietnam aims to strengthen its connections with China, its major trading partner, and improve travel between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
