After just two weeks of operation, Metro Line 1 in Ho Chi Minh City has already served over 1.7 million passengers across 3,029 trips, surpassing projected ridership by 300%. However, the management team has encountered numerous cases of passengers violating safety rules and disregarding proper etiquette in pursuit of “viral” moments.

Safety concerns and improper behavior

HURC 1 (Ho Chi Minh City Urban Railway Company) reported that while Metro Line 1’s performance has been largely stable, some passengers have engaged in behavior that poses safety risks and disrupts operations.

Among the most egregious incidents were passengers leaning out of emergency windows (intended only for staff in critical situations) to capture photos, ignoring warnings from staff.

A few individuals even removed clothing in public spaces to take inappropriate photos, violating cultural norms.

Tripods, often used for photography and videography, have been deployed in stations and on trains, obstructing movement and creating potential hazards for other passengers.

Some passengers blocked platform screen doors and train doors while waiting for others, despite repeated reminders about the 30-second door operation time. Others rushed onto or off trains as doors were closing, endangering themselves and delaying service.

Additional rule-breaking behavior

The station staff frequently had to intervene as passengers crossed the safety line on platforms despite warnings. Many riders ignored protocols such as lining up at escalators and train entrances, leading to crowding, pushing, and potential safety risks.

Several passengers refused to scan QR codes or create boarding passes, citing the free trial period as justification. Others brought food, drinks, or unregistered pets into the station, with some even releasing pets on the platform, disrupting the shared space.

HURC 1 emphasized the importance of respecting metro regulations to ensure passenger safety and maintain a pleasant travel experience. With Metro Line 1 expected to continue attracting high ridership, proper etiquette and cooperation from passengers are essential to its smooth operation.

Tuan Kiet