HCMC Metro Line Requests $4.3 Million for Trial Operations

The company responsible for operating Metro Line No. 1 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, has requested VND102.3 billion, sought (approximately $4.3 million) from the Management Authority for Urban Railways (MAUR) to conduct trial runs of the rail line. The estimated costs include VND71 billion for electricity, VND12.5 billion for employee wages, VND10.7 billion for operational services, and VND8.1 billion for fire prevention.

If the funds are not provided promptly, the company plans to use its own capital for the test operations and later seek reimbursement. Metro Line No. 1, also known as the Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien urban railway, is currently 97% complete and in the phase of testing safety systems, fire prevention and firefighting review, and personnel training for operation.

Why this matters: The trial run of Metro Line No. 1 are a crucial step towards the completion and opening of Ho Chi Minh City's first urban rail line. The successful operation of this metro line could significantly improve public transportation and reduce traffic congestion in the bustling city.

The request for funding highlights the financial challenges involved in the final stages of the metro line's development. The company's willingness to use its own capital for the trial runs demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the project moves forward, even if the requested funds are not immediately available from MAUR.

As Metro Line No. 1 nears completion, the focus is on ensuring the safety and readiness of the rail line for public use. The testing of safety systems, fire prevention measures, and personnel training are essential steps in preparing the metro line for its official launch, which is expected to greatly benefit the residents and visitors of Ho Chi Minh City.

Key Takeaways

• Metro Line No. 1 in Ho Chi Minh City is 97% complete, seeking $4.3M for trial runs.
• Funds requested for electricity, wages, operations, and fire prevention for trial runs.
• Company willing to use own capital if funds not provided, seeking reimbursement later.
• Successful trial run crucial for completing and opening Ho Chi Minh City's first metro line.
• Testing safety, fire prevention, and personnel training are essential steps before public launch.