Brian Jeffrey
After seven years of development, Ben Thanh Station is officially finished. This extensive structure includes four levels below ground and measures 236 meters long, 60 meters wide, and 32 meters deep. It is the largest of the 14 stations on this metro line and will serve as a major hub for connecting with other lines in the future.
A key highlight of the station is its impressive lotus-shaped skylight, which reaches a height of 6 meters and spans 21.6 meters in diameter. This feature is designed to enhance natural lighting throughout the underground spaces.
The first level encompasses around 45,000 square meters and is equipped with commercial areas, wide corridors, an underground plaza, ticket vending machines, a main hall, and entry checkpoints for passengers.
The second level is tailored for boarding and includes directional signage, signal lights, seating, route maps, and various facilities, including restrooms, all completely operational.
Nearby, Opera House Station extends 190 meters long and 26 meters wide, featuring four underground levels.
The first level provides essential passenger services, such as waiting areas, ticket vending machines, automated fare gates, and restrooms.
The ticket inspection section has two entrances leading to 16 lanes, including four wider lanes specifically for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, there are ticket offices, security rooms, and spaces for staff.
The design features automated ticket vending machines for the ease of passengers.
Currently, Opera House Station is managed by a staff of 27 employees, while Ben Thanh and Ba Son Stations are staffed by 23 and 24 personnel, respectively.
The architectural design of the ceiling and adjacent areas reflects elements reminiscent of the Opera House located above ground.
Ba Son Station, the smallest of the three, consists of two levels, stretching 240 meters long, over 34 meters wide, and 20 meters deep.
The ceiling features decorative white steel patterns that resemble flowing waves, symbolizing the Saigon River.
The floors are covered in decorative cement tiles, with yellow paths indicating routes for persons with disabilities.
Ba Son Station boasts 4-meter-wide hallways complemented by walls that feature openings for advertising displays.
It is the last underground station before the metro line transitions to the elevated sections.
Metro Line 1 connects Ben Thanh Station to Long Binh Depot in Thu Duc City and spans nearly 20 kilometers, with a total investment exceeding VND 43.7 trillion. The project includes three underground stations and 11 above-ground stations, with commercial operations expected to commence on December 22.
