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In recent days, the Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien metro line (Line 1) has been a hot topic on all social media platforms. Stunning check-in photos and excited posts from young people who participated in the first trial run have sparked curiosity, excitement, and a desire to "ride the train" immediately.
Metro Line 1 (Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien) has officially opened to welcome residents of Ho Chi Minh City for a trial experience. This long-awaited event marks a major step forward for the city in developing a modern public transportation system.
After nearly a month of trial runs at 20% of its designed capacity, the metro has switched to commercial operation, running from 5:00 AM to 11:30 PM daily.
Prior to the recent opening of the Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien metro line, two other metro lines were already operational in Hanoi. However, for the people of Ho Chi Minh City, the first metro line remains a special event. This is because, similar to Hanoi, the unique complexities of this system – along with various other reasons – meant that the existing metro line took over a decade to complete, with numerous delays.
Metro Line 1 Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien runs through 14 stations, with a total length of 19.7 km. This is the first urban train line in Vietnam with underground stations - 3 stations with a total length of 2.6 km. With the advantage of having its own dedicated track, the train is expected to ensure fast and convenient transportation, avoiding the elements at a reasonable cost, becoming an indispensable experience for those living and traveling in the city.
The highlight of Ben Thanh station is the 6-meter-high atrium with a diameter of 21.6 meters, designed in the shape of an exquisite and beautiful lotus flower. This is a place where everyone stops to take souvenir photos before boarding the metro train.
With a length of nearly 20 km and 14 stations - including 3 underground stations - the Ben Thanh metro line is currently the largest and most useful metro line in Vietnam, connecting the city center to the northern gateway, where major facilities such as bus stations and schools are located.
During the final trial run of the metro before commercial operation, residents of Ho Chi Minh City can register to experience it, starting from Ben Thanh station (District 1). The trial run will last until December 21st, from 5 am to over 10 pm, with approximately 200 trips per day.
Throughout the journey, the train stops at stations for approximately 30 seconds to pick up and drop off passengers. With such short stops, passengers need to be ready and quick to board or disembark.
Participation requirements are simple: just click "like" and "follow" the HCMC METRO fanpage. However, all registration slots were filled within hours of the announcement. Even so, the program continues until December 21st, and a new registration link will be available daily. Many people are eagerly waiting to avoid missing this opportunity to participate in this experience.
Most of the young people participating enthusiastically shared positive feelings about the metro line. The trains run smoothly, quickly, and are extremely modern. In particular, the signs and announcements are very clear and easy to understand, helping first-time users avoid confusion.
Metro Line 1 is scheduled to begin commercial operation on December 22, 2024. For the first month, all residents of Ho Chi Minh City will be able to experience it for free. This is a significant step in improving public transportation and enhancing the quality of life in the city. With the excitement and attention from the community, Metro Line 1 is gradually becoming a new symbol of Ho Chi Minh City.
