Improving how we behave in HCMC's new metro

I lived for over six years in countries with well established metro systems.

In Japan, my house was next to a station. I grew used to the sound of trains and automated announcements.

Those sounds were something I deeply missed when I lived elsewhere.

The first time I stepped into the Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien metro, memories of my time in Japan came flooding back.

Everything reminded me of Japan—the station design, the train interiors, the way the train glided through the wind, and even the view of escape staircases on high-rise buildings.

It felt like being back on a Japanese train.

After years of waiting HCMC residents now have access to a modern and convenient public transport system. This milestone enhances the city's vibrant and progressive image.

Currently the metro has staff assisting passengers in navigating stations and boarding trains. But I believe passengers also need guidance on other important aspects.

First, let us discuss the queuing etiquette at metro stations. While some may think passengers are already being instructed, that is not entirely true, at least not in the way the system was designed to ensure smooth operation.

At each station gate, arrows painted on the ground indicate where people should walk: Exiting passengers should follow the middle arrow, while boarding passengers should use the two side arrows.

This system allows people to board and exit quickly and safely.

However, I have not seen the staff telling passengers to follow this system.

Boarding and exiting often remain chaotic, with people pushing and crowding at the doors.

Inside the train, passengers should maintain order. Loud conversations, eating and drinking uncovered beverages, especially with ice that may drip, should be avoided.

Other passengers should not sit in priority seats meant for children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.

During my second metro trip for work, I noticed many elderly passengers standing while young people occupied the limited seats in the car.

I even saw a couple hugging each other on a seat while an elderly man stood nearby, gripping a handrail and trembling visibly.

Passengers on a Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien metro train in HCMC. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran

Passengers should also pay attention to announcements or watch the green flashing light on the map above the doors to know which side will open. Many ignore these cues, leading to unnecessary rushing and shoving when trying to exit.

I acknowledge some of our shortcomings in public behavior, such as disorderly queuing and a lack of awareness in shared spaces. But I believe we Vietnamese can change.

During this trial period we must not only promote the metro as a modern transit solution but also educate people in how to use it responsibly.

Behaviors are contagious. Thus, even someone who behaves poorly at home might follow rules abroad because everyone else does.

In our metro too, if most people queue properly and follow the rules, others will naturally follow suit.

The current free trial period is an opportunity to establish good habits for metro use.

Once these habits take root and regular commercial operations begin, we can expect a more orderly and civilized commuting culture.

After 17 years of anticipation HCMC residents finally have a modern metro system.

Now is the time to cultivate a culture of respect and order on the metro.

*Pham Minh Vuong is a lecturer in biomedical engineering.