After 18 years of anticipation, Ho Chi Minh City’s first metro line is set to commence commercial operations next month. While the launch marks a significant milestone, the long-term success and expansion of metro services in the city will require careful consideration of several key factors.

The inaugural line spans from Ben Thanh Market in District 1 to Suoi Tien Theme Park in Thu Duc City.

It is anticipated to ease daily commutes for residents and play a pivotal role in transforming the southern metropolis into a modern and civilized urban hub.

The metro service is likely to attract a large number of passengers.

Riding the metro train during its test run, the authors felt comfortable as the train moved smoothly and swiftly.

Seated on the metro train, the writers glanced at a map on their phones, tracing the route and reflecting on what it would take to ensure the metro's success.

The metro system’s future hinges not only on meeting the city’s demands for efficient transportation, growth, and modernization but also on fostering a shift in commuter behavior.

For the metro to thrive, it requires passengers willing to adapt by reducing reliance on private vehicles and embracing a more integrated approach -- walking or riding motorcycles to reach metro stations.

This behavioral change will be crucial for the metro line to fulfill its potential as a transformative urban transit solution.

Besides, the first metro line requires the opening of additional links to cover the entire city.

The city is working to implement the metro No. 2 and 3 projects, while the fourth, fifth, and sixth lines are being planned.

Smooth connections between the metro line, bus routes, and public bicycle lanes will help increase the visibility and use of metro services.

To make the metro more appealing, cultural centers, shopping malls, parks, and entertainment facilities should be developed along the route, offering passengers more attractive destinations.

The new mode of transportation not only provides passengers with comfortable space, but also helps ease traffic jams on key routes and reduce air pollution. 

The metro line would make daily life more convenient and enjoyable.

The city is determined to complete six metro lines stretching 183 kilometers within the next 10 years.

The first metro line is 19.7 kilometers long, including 2.6 kilometers of underground urban rail link and 17.1 kilometers of elevated track, carrying a price tag of VND43.7 trillion (US$1.7 billion).

The line has a total of 17 trains, each capable of accommodating 930 passengers, including 147 sitting and 783 standing.

The first metro line project was launched in 2006, and its construction began in 2012.

Metro line No. 1 underwent a test run at full design capacity from late October to early November.

It will start commercial operations on December 22.

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