According to Van Thi Huu Tam, Deputy Director of HURC1 (Ho Chi Minh City Urban Railways Co., Ltd.), the line saw heavy passenger turnout between 10 AM and 4 PM on December 22.

With service continuing until 10 PM, the total number of passengers was expected to grow further on the inaugural day of HCMC’s first urban railway line.

During the initial 30 days, passengers can enjoy free rides without requiring tickets, apps, or identification. Simply arriving at the station grants access to Metro Line 1.

However, the overwhelming crowd at Ben Thanh Station led to recommendations from HURC1 to explore other stations or visit on later days to avoid long wait times.

Passengers were urged to queue orderly and give priority to the elderly, children, and disabled individuals to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for all.

Operation schedule and ticket pricing

Initial schedule: For the first six months, the metro operates from 5 AM to 10 PM with trains running every 8-12 minutes; After six months, service hours will extend from 5 AM to 11:30 PM, with intervals adjusted to 5-15 minutes based on peak and off-peak hours.

Ticket pricing (effective late January 2025):

Day pass: 40,000 VND/person, unlimited rides.

Three-day pass: 90,000 VND/person.

Monthly pass: 300,000 VND/person; students receive a 50% discount at 150,000 VND.

Single trip: 7,000–20,000 VND for cash payments and 6,000–19,000 VND for cashless transactions.

Payment options include cash, coins, domestic and international bank cards, and digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.

Improved connectivity

To enhance accessibility, 17 electric bus routes have been launched to connect passengers to metro stations. During the first 30 days of commercial operation, passengers can also enjoy free rides on these electric buses.

Parking facilities are available at stations like Van Thanh Park, Thao Dien, Rach Chiec, Phuoc Long, Binh Thai, and Suoi Tien Bus Station to accommodate metro users.

Metro Line 1 is set to officially begin commercial operations by late January 2025, marking a significant milestone in HCMC’s urban transportation development.

 
Tuan Kiet