Transforming Ho Chi Minh City with Metro Line 1

The bustling city of Ho Chi Minh has embarked on an incredible transformation with the successful operation of its first metro line, connecting Bến Thành and Suối Tiên. This ambitious project is not just a transportation upgrade; it’s a vibrant leap toward enhancing urban infrastructure and improving the quality of life for its residents. Recently, General Secretary Tô Lâm, alongside a delegation of high-ranking officials from Laos and Ho Chi Minh City, took a special trip on the metro, marking a significant moment in this journey.

On February 22, 2024, the Metro Company HURC 1, responsible for operating this line, had the honor of welcoming General Secretary Tô Lâm. This visit underscores the government’s commitment to improving public transportation, ensuring accessibility for all citizens. The guests, arriving unexpectedly, were greeted with warm hospitality typical of the HURC 1 team, who managed to continue regular operations while hosting their prominent visitors.

During the visit, General Secretary Tô Lâm engaged with everyday passengers, speaking kindly to them and displaying a genuine interest in their experiences. This interaction exemplified the human element behind transportation advancements, showcasing how vital public transit is to citizens’ daily lives. The metro has been operational for just over two months, yet it has already made a remarkable impact.

Since its official opening on December 22, 2024, Metro Line 1 has served over 4.4 million passengers, completing 11,776 journeys, which reflects an impressive 194% of its projected capacity. The average ridership has stabilized at around 73,000 passengers per day, indicating a strong acceptance and reliance on this new mode of transport.

Metro Line 1 operates from 5 AM to 10 PM, with trains running every 8 to 12 minutes—essentially providing 200 trips in a single day. The system features modern automatic ticketing and various payment methods, including QR codes and mobile wallets, making it user-friendly and efficient. Such advancements exemplify the leap towards a more digitized and accessible public transport system.

The establishment of the metro line is timely, given the rapid urbanization and the accompanying challenges in Ho Chi Minh City. Congestion and transportation difficulties have long plagued the growing metropolis, and the introduction of this metro line offers a compelling solution. Enhancing public transport not only reduces traffic on the roads but also contributes positively to environmental concerns—less pollution and lower urban noise levels are just some benefits of this major project.

Moreover, the metro’s design promotes connectivity within the city. It extends for 19.7 kilometers and links key areas, making commuting easier for thousands. By decreasing dependency on personal vehicles, the metro also supports broader urban planning goals aimed at shaping a more sustainable city.

The positive response from the public, particularly during periods like the

, where ridership peaked at 200,000 on high-demand days, indicates that Ho Chi Minh City’s residents are embracing this shift. It is essential to continue optimizing operations and making travel as convenient as possible for passengers. Innovations in technology and ongoing improvements to the service will play pivotal roles in maintaining and increasing this ridership.

As the city moves forward, the metro project symbolizes not just a transportation upgrade, but an investment in the future of urban living in Ho Chi Minh City. With each passing day, the impact of Metro Line 1 can be seen and felt across the city's vibrant streets.

This venture into urban railways is more than a transportation solution; it’s a commitment to progressing towards a well-connected and sustainable future for all residents. As the city continues to evolve, Metro Line 1 stands as a beacon of innovation and urban resilience.