Ho Chi Minh City is considering a proposal to invest more than VND124 trillion (US$5 billion) in two elevated metro lines connecting the city with the former Binh Duong province, in what could become a major milestone for southern Vietnam’s transport infrastructure.

The proposal was submitted by a consortium of Becamex IDC and Truong Hai Group (THACO) to the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, outlining plans to study and develop two key routes.

The first line would connect the center of Binh Duong New City, now part of Hoa Phu ward in Ho Chi Minh City, to Suoi Tien Bus Station. The route would span approximately 32.43 km and include 19 elevated stations, with trains operating at a maximum design speed of 120 km/h.

With a total estimated investment of VND64.37 trillion (approximately US$2.6 billion), this line is envisioned as a critical transport artery, directly linking to the existing Metro Line 1 (Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien). It is expected to handle large passenger volumes while ensuring safety and energy efficiency.

In parallel, the second metro line would run 24.2 km from Thu Dau Mot to Hiep Binh Station, which is part of Metro Line 3 in Ho Chi Minh City. The line would feature 14 elevated stations and require an estimated VND59.97 trillion (US$2.4 billion), including more than VND15 trillion allocated for site clearance.

Both projects are designed under the transit-oriented development (TOD) model, integrating urban growth with public transport systems. The consortium proposes implementing the projects under public-private partnership (PPP) frameworks such as BOT or BT, aiming to mobilize private capital and reduce pressure on the state budget.

To demonstrate commitment, the investors have pledged to cover all research costs and bear full risks if the proposal is not approved. If endorsed by city authorities, legal procedures are expected to be completed within 2026, paving the way for construction to begin in the first quarter of 2027 and operations targeted for 2030.

Following administrative restructuring, Ho Chi Minh City’s urban railway network is projected to expand to 27 lines with a total length of approximately 1,012 km. Of this, the former Binh Duong area would account for 12 lines spanning about 305 km, while the former Ba Ria - Vung Tau area would include three lines totaling around 125 km.

Under new regulatory frameworks, particularly National Assembly Resolution 188, the city is accelerating multiple metro projects. Metro Line 2 (Ben Thanh - Tham Luong) has already begun construction, while groundwork has been initiated for the Ben Thanh - Can Gio railway. Preparations are also underway for the Ben Thanh - Thu Thiem section and the Thu Thiem - Long Thanh railway.

Tuan Kiet