As the nation prepares to welcome Tet 2025, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh visited Hanoi Railway Station on January 27 (28th day of the lunar calendar) to inspect the Vietnam Railways Corporation’s Tet operations and celebrate the Lunar New Year with passengers and railway staff.

Enhancing railway services for Tet

During his visit, the Prime Minister toured ticketing counters, passenger boarding areas, and participated in cultural activities organized at the station.

He also inspected newly upgraded railway services, including modernized passenger cars with rotating seats for comfort, community-focused “Spring Journey” trains, and luxury trains designed in collaboration with tourism companies.

The "Spring Journey" train, which runs from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City during New Year’s Eve, features festive decorations, traditional Tet activities such as countdown events, folk games, and Tet cuisine.

Passengers can also join on-board creative workshops, including painting and sculpture, hosted by artists.

Prime Minister Chinh also experienced the luxury tourist train, dubbed a "five-star mobile hotel," which offers an eight-day journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, stopping at key tourist destinations such as Ninh Binh, Quang Binh, Da Nang, Quang Nam, and Phan Thiet.

Impressive growth and Tet preparations

Dang Sy Manh, Chairman of the Vietnam Railways Corporation, reported that 2024 marked the third consecutive year of profitable railway operations. Passenger numbers exceeded 7 million, an increase of 14.8%, while freight transport reached over 5.1 million tons, up 11.2%. Particularly noteworthy was a 36% growth in international rail transport.

For Tet 2025, the corporation has sold over 430,000 tickets, utilizing 54 train units to operate seven direct Hanoi-Saigon routes and nine regional routes to meet increased holiday demand.

The Prime Minister praised the railway industry for its innovations and commitment to enhancing service quality.

He highlighted achievements such as upgraded high-quality trains, creative cultural experiences for passengers, and the development of initiatives like the “Railway of Flowers” campaign, which aims to beautify stations and tracks.

He emphasized the importance of adopting modern management practices, advancing digital transformation, and promoting sustainable development within the industry.

He also urged the railway sector to accelerate efforts to connect with China and establish standard-gauge railways to boost trade with Central Asia and Europe.

As part of the celebration, Prime Minister Chinh gave Tet gifts and li xi (lucky money) to passengers and railway staff, expressing gratitude for their hard work and dedication during the festive season.

VGP