Under the scheme, kiosks will be installed at Ben Thanh Station and Suoi Tien Terminal Station on the Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien metro line. The pilot programme is scheduled to begin this month and run for two months before authorities consider expanding it across the entire route.
Eligible passengers will use their national ID cards to register and receive free tickets based on selected journeys. The system will also record user data to ensure tickets are distributed transparently and to the correct beneficiaries.
The programme was proposed by HCM City Television and Radio Station in coordination with Urban Railway Company No.1 (HURC1), operator of Metro Line 1.
City authorities have instructed HURC1 to work with relevant agencies to implement the programme in line with regulations and ensure support reaches intended recipients.
HURC1 said it would also cooperate with police this month to introduce biometric technology for priority passengers, including people aged over 60 and students using monthly passes.
Metro Line 1, connecting Ben Thanh Market in central Ho Chi Minh City with Suoi Tien in the east, is the city’s first urban railway line.
