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Finally happening: HCMC's 1st metro line begins service after 12 years

By Gia Minh, Thanh Tung, Quynh Tran   December 21, 2024 | 03:42 pm PT
Ho Chi Minh City's Metro Line No. 1 officially launches operations on Sunday morning, connecting Ben Thanh Market in District 1 to Suoi Tien Theme Park in Thu Duc City, marking a milestone 12 years after construction began.

At 10 a.m. Sunday, all 14 stations of the metro line officially open to the public. But a large number of people already flocked to Ben Thanh Station, the line's largest, at around 7 a.m.

People gather at Ben Thanh Station waiting to board the Metro No.1 trains on Dec. 22, 2024. Photo by VnExpress/Thanh Tung

People gather at Ben Thanh Station waiting to board the Metro No.1 trains on Dec. 22, 2024. Photo by VnExpress/Thanh Tung

Ho Chi Minh City Vice Chairman Bui Xuan Cuong said the launch of the city's first metro line marks a significant milestone in the development of its public transportation system. The metro will cater to the public's need for fast and efficient travel, contributing to the creation of a sustainable and modern public transit network, Cuong said.

"This project is also a symbol of the cooperation and strong ties between Vietnam and Japan, achieved through years of relentless effort."

He added that the metro line sets the foundation for the future expansion of the city’s urban rail system.

Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Ito Naoki expressed hope that the Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien line will improve connectivity in high-traffic areas and encourage residents to shift from private vehicles to public transportation.

"The success of Metro Line 1 will serve as a catalyst for the development of additional projects and infrastructure," said Ito Naoki.

Metro No. 1 trains run pass Rach Chiec station in Thu Duc City, Dec. 22, 2024. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran

Metro No. 1 trains run pass Rach Chiec station in Thu Duc City, Dec. 22, 2024. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran

During the first month, passengers can ride the metro for free, along with 17 connected electric bus routes. After this period, passengers will have the option to purchase single-ride tickets, as well as one-day, three-day, or monthly passes.

Single-ride tickets paid with cash will range from VND7,000 to VND20,000 (US$0.27-0.79), depending on the distance traveled. For cashless payments, the fare will be slightly lower, ranging from VND6,000 to VND19,000.

Work began on HCMC’s first metro route in August 2012. It was originally scheduled to be completed in six years.

The line, running 19.7km between Ben Thanh and Suoi Tien Theme Park in Thu Duc City, has carried with it high hopes of opening up a new mode of mass transportation and addressing people’s need to travel between the downtown area and the city's eastern gateway.

People wait to board the metro train at Rach Chiec Station in Thu Duc City, Dec. 22, 2024. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran

People wait to board the metro train at Rach Chiec Station in Thu Duc City, Dec. 22, 2024. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran

Costing over VND43.7 trillion (US$1.72 billion), Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien line includes 11 elevated stations and three underground ones: Ben Thanh, Opera House, and Ba Son, all in District 1.

 
 
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