Free Metro Rides on Line 1 in Ho Chi Minh City During Two Tet Holidays

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction has submitted a proposal to the City People’s Committee, suggesting that the Management Board of Urban Railway No. 1 (HURC 1) collaborate with Hoa Sen Advertising Joint Stock Company (Hoa Sen Company) to sponsor the operational costs of Metro Line No. 1. This initiative aims to offer free rides to residents during the upcoming 2026 New Year’s Day and Lunar New Year celebrations.

Previously, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30, 1975 – April 30, 2025), International Labor Day (May 1), and National Day (September 2), Hoa Sen Company fully sponsored free metro rides for citizens over three days. This initiative was well-received, fostering a positive image of the city’s compassion and encouraging residents to experience modern public transportation.

This initiative was widely praised for its positive impact, enhancing the city’s reputation as a caring community and encouraging residents to embrace modern public transportation.

According to the Department of Construction, Hoa Sen Company has proposed to continue sponsoring free travel for residents on Metro Line No. 1 on January 1, 2026 (New Year’s Day) and from February 16 to 17, 2026 (the 29th and 1st days of the Lunar New Year). Additionally, the company seeks permission to decorate the trains with political and advertising themes, creating a festive atmosphere and promoting the city’s image during these celebrations.

The Department of Construction has consulted relevant agencies, including the Urban Railway Management Board, the Department of Culture and Sports, the Department of Finance, and HURC 1. All parties have agreed in principle, emphasizing that any decorations or advertisements must comply with guidelines from the Department of Culture and Sports.

Based on this consensus, the Department of Construction recommends that the City People’s Committee approve the collaboration between HURC 1 and Hoa Sen Company to implement this program, further promoting the use of public transportation.

Additionally, the Department requests that Hoa Sen Company coordinate with HURC 1, the Public Transport Management Center, and other relevant units to ensure smooth execution. HURC 1 must adhere to the City People’s Committee’s directives in Document 3889/UBND-ĐT dated May 30, 2025, and complete all legal procedures before implementation.

This program is expected to enhance the appeal of Metro Line No. 1, a key transportation project in Ho Chi Minh City, while offering residents a modern and civilized metro experience during the early days of the new year.