People traveling from downtown Ho Chi Minh City to Thanh An islet currently rely on wooden boats for which the large waves of the rough estuary waters pose a safety risk, particularly during the storm season.
According to the city's Department of Construction, authorities are studying the deployment of modern high-speed vessels that would significantly shorten travel time and improve passenger safety.
The plan to mobilize private investment to modernize water transportation aims to enhance connectivity between island communes and give new momentum to tourism, socio-economic development, and the city's river- and sea-based economy.
Phan Viet Phuong, Deputy Director of ship building company Tan Vien Dong , said: "With the support and approval of Ho Chi Minh City's authorities, we are ready to deploy passenger vessels carrying 60-80 passengers. These boats will operate safely at high speed."
The new speedboat service would allow passengers to travel directly from Bach Dang wharf in downtown Ho Chi Minh City to Thanh An island in about an hour, replacing the current route that combines road and water transport.
Mr. Phuong said: “We will work closely with the Department of Construction to provide convenient passenger transport services for island routes.”
The proposed improvements include new waiting areas, piers, and support facilities that meet technical standards and ensure greater safety and convenience for passengers.
