Brian Jeffrey
Launch of Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien Metro Line and Fares Implementation
The Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien metro line is set to start its commercial services on January 21, with established fare rates. The schedule has been revised to meet the high travel demand expected during the upcoming Lunar New Year (Tet) in 2025.
On January 18, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Transport revealed the operational schedule for Metro Line 1 for the Tet holiday period, which will be effective from January 24 to February 2.
During the period from January 24 to 28, the metro will operate daily from 5:00 AM until 11:00 PM. On January 29, which is Lunar New Year’s Day, services will start at 12:30 AM and continue until 2:00 AM, then resume from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
From January 30 to February 2, trains will run from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
In response to passenger needs, the operator will monitor ridership and adjust train frequencies accordingly throughout this festive period.
Free Ride Promotion and Ticketing Details
Metro Line 1 officially launched on December 22, 2024, offering complimentary rides for the initial month. It operates every day from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, completing around 200 journeys daily.
As reported by HURC 1 (Ho Chi Minh City Urban Railways Company Limited), nearly 2.65 million riders have taken advantage of the free service, achieving 246% of the expected number and facilitating over 5,400 safe trips.
Starting January 21, passengers will be required to purchase tickets. The daily fare is set at 40,000 VND (roughly $1.70) for unlimited rides within a single day. A three-day ticket can be acquired for 90,000 VND, while a monthly pass will cost 300,000 VND, discounted to 150,000 VND for students.
Single-ride fares will vary based on distance, ranging from 7,000 to 20,000 VND for cash payments and 6,000 to 19,000 VND for cashless options.
Additionally, free tickets will be available for specific groups, including veterans, individuals with disabilities, seniors, and children under six. These groups will also have free access to buses that connect with Metro Line 1.
