(VOVWORLD) - Ho Chi Minh city has inaugurated its first urban railway line, Ben Thanh-SuoiTien Metro Line No. 1. This is a significant milestone in public transport, urbanization, and economic development in Vietnam’s largest metropolis.
 An Phu station - part of the Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien metro line in Ho Chi Minh City. (Photo: VNA) |
The Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien line traverses district 1, Binh Thanh district, Thu Duc city, and Di An city in Binh Duong province, passing through 14 stations. The metro trains, designed with three carriages and a capacity of 930 passengers, operate daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., with a train every 8 to 12 minutes. The entire journey from Ben Thanh to Suoi Tien takes approximately 30 minutes.
Metro Line 1 offers a modern transportation solution aimed at reducing congestion, improving air quality, fostering urban development, enhancing the overall quality of life, and boosting the city’s development. The metro line is the first step toward HCM city’s goal of sustainable urban transportation.
At the inauguration, Vice Chairman of the municipal People's Committee Bui Xuan Cuong said Metro Line 1 symbolizes the city’s ambition for growth, integration, and sustainable development.
Cuong said: "Metro Line 1 represents a new chapter in our journey toward modern urban transportation. Local residents and visitors support our goal and will treat it as a means of travel, a cultural symbol, and a dynamic public space that reflects the vibrant urban life of Ho Chi Minh city."
A Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) model will be applied at three key stations connected to bus terminals, sports complexes, and other facilities. This will drive urban growth in the city’s northern regions and improve transportation in gateway areas.
Vu Anh Tuan, Director of the Center for Transport Research at Vietnam-Germany University, said: “Relevant agencies should work closely to develop detailed plans and business models for these key stations. This approach can create an immense value for the city.”
National Assembly deputy Tran Hoang Ngan said that, with its speed, convenience, and modern design, the metro can attract significant public usage. Areas along the metro route will become prime locations for investment in real estate, commerce, and services, which will serve as a growth engine boosting socio-economic development and improving the lives of local residents.