Ho Chi Minh City’s First Metro Line Opens After 12 Years
Ho Chi Minh City’s long-awaited Metro Line No. 1 officially began operations on the morning of December 22, connecting Ben Thanh Market in District 1 to Suoi Tien Theme Park in Thu Duc City. This marks a significant turning point, 12 years after construction first commenced.
Ho Chi Minh City’s First Metro Line (Image Source: Tien Phong)
By 10 a.m., all 14 stations along the metro line were open to the public. However, excitement filled the air hours earlier as crowds gathered at Ben Thanh Station—the largest on the line—starting at 7:00 AM.
First line of Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien Metro Map (Image Source: Bac Ha)
Speaking at the launch, Vice Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City, Bui Xuan Cuong, emphasized that the debut of Metro Line No. 1 represents a pivotal moment in the city’s public transportation history. “This metro line will address the need for fast and efficient travel while contributing to a sustainable and modern transit system”, he stated.
Locals are excited to experience the metro from the first days of opening. (Image Source: Internet)
Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Ito Naoki shared similar optimism, expressing hope that the Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien metro line would enhance connectivity in traffic-heavy areas and encourage residents to shift from private vehicles to public transport, helping alleviate congestion.
For the first month, passengers can enjoy free rides on the metro, along with access to 17 electric bus routes that are integrated with the metro system. After the initial free period, passengers will have multiple ticketing options, including single-ride tickets, as well as one-day, three-day, or monthly passes.
Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien Metro from sky view (Image Source: Vietnamnet)
Single-ride tickets purchased with cash will cost between VND7,000 and VND20,000 ($0.27 – $0.79), depending on the distance traveled. For those using cashless payments, fares will be slightly discounted, ranging from VND6,000 to VND19,000.
The launch of Ho Chi Minh City’s Metro Line No. 1 is expected to transform the city’s transit landscape, paving the way for a more connected, efficient, and sustainable urban future.
The 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.
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