23-12-2024 (HANOI) Ho Chi Minh City has finally inaugurated its first-ever metro system, marking a watershed moment in the megacity’s transport infrastructure after nearly two decades of development challenges and setbacks.
The $1.7 billion transit line, stretching 20 kilometres through the heart of Vietnam’s commercial hub, drew massive crowds on its opening day as residents queued eagerly to be among the first passengers on the landmark service.
The state-of-the-art system connects the historic Ben Thanh Market in the city centre to Thu Duc City and Suoi Tien Amusement Park in the eastern suburbs, offering a much-needed alternative to the city’s notoriously congested roads.
“This represents a transformative step forward for our metropolitan transport network,” said Deputy Mayor Bui Xuan Cuong at the opening ceremony. “The metro will help address our growing mobility needs whilst tackling the pressing issues of traffic congestion and air pollution.”
The project, primarily funded through Japanese development loans, has faced numerous obstacles since its 2007 approval. Initial cost projections of $668 million ultimately nearly tripled, whilst the completion date stretched well beyond its original 2017 target.
Authorities cite various factors behind the delays, including funding disbursement issues, technical complications, staffing challenges, and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The system will operate 200 daily services, with fares ranging from 20-65 pence. In a move to encourage ridership, authorities are offering free travel during the first month of operations.
Urban planning experts, whilst celebrating the milestone, caution that the 14-station line alone cannot solve the transport woes of a metropolis home to 10 million residents. Professor Vu Minh Hoang of Fulbright University Vietnam notes, “Whilst this achievement is historic, its immediate impact on traffic reduction may be modest.”
Nevertheless, city officials remain optimistic, with plans for six additional metro lines in development. The successful completion of this initial line is viewed as a crucial learning experience for future expansion of the network.
For residents like office worker Nguyen Nhu Huyen, the metro represents more than just improved transport. “This puts us on the map alongside other global cities,” she remarked whilst capturing the historic moment on her mobile phone.
