During a recent visit to Ho Chi Minh City, Party General Secretary To Lam rode the newly inaugurated Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien metro line, engaging with commuters and highlighting the significance of the modern transit system.
A Tour of the Metro Line
On Saturday, February 22, 2025, To Lam was joined by several key officials, including Politburo member Nguyen Van Nen, who serves as the Secretary of the HCMC Party Committee, Le Hoai Trung, Secretary of the Party Central Committee and Chief of the Party Central Committee’s Office, and Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son. The group traveled from Ben Thanh Station to Tan Cang Station, where they interacted with passengers riding the metro.
Commuters expressed their satisfaction with the new metro line, noting that it significantly reduces travel time and meets their transportation needs, thereby enhancing their overall quality of life. “It’s a game-changer for how we navigate the city,” one passenger remarked.
Metro Line Details
Spanning 19.7 kilometers, the Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien metro line connects downtown Ho Chi Minh City to its eastern gateway. It includes 14 stations—three underground and 11 elevated—along with a depot. This ambitious project received approval in 2007, with construction officially commencing in 2012. The total investment for the metro line exceeded VND43.7 trillion (approximately US$1.71 billion).
Since its launch on December 22, 2024, the metro line has welcomed over 4.6 million passengers. Ticket prices range from VND7,000 to VND20,000, depending on the distance traveled. Monthly passes are available for VND300,000, with students eligible for a 50% discount. Additionally, free rides are provided for children under six, veterans, seniors over 60, and individuals with disabilities.
Impact on Urban Development
Beyond addressing traffic congestion in the city center, the metro line is expected to stimulate urban expansion towards the east and contribute to sustainable socio-economic development in Ho Chi Minh City. The municipal People’s Committee views the line as more than just a mode of transport; it symbolizes the city’s ambitions for growth, integration, and sustainability.
As the metro system continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to Ho Chi Minh City’s commitment to improving public transportation and enhancing the quality of life for its residents, reflecting broader goals for urban development and modernization.
