Article 4: Ho Chi Minh City's Transport Infrastructure: A Key to Regional Connectivity and Development

Vision for Transport Development: Breakthroughs in Urban Connectivity

The Master Plan outlines a vision to build a synchronized, modern, and intelligent transport system, with a primary focus on easing urban traffic congestion. Key projects, including metro lines, electric buses, and ring roads, are set to play a central role in improving connectivity between central districts, suburban areas, and neighboring provinces.

The metro network is a cornerstone of Ho Chi Minh City's public transport strategy. Metro Line 1 (Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien), expected to be operational by 2025, along with other planned lines, will significantly reduce the pressure on road traffic. Furthermore, integrating the metro system with buses and other transport modes will enhance convenience for urban commuters.

Additionally, Ho Chi Minh City is advancing plans to develop pedestrian-friendly zones and dedicated cycling lanes in new urban areas. These initiatives aim not only to reduce traffic congestion but also to promote a greener, more livable environment for residents.

Regional Connectivity: Strengthening Interregional Transport

Ho Chi Minh City is not only Vietnam’s economic hub but also a critical transportation nexus connecting the Southeast, the Mekong Delta, and other regions. The Master Plan focuses on developing expressways and ring roads to enhance interregional connectivity, reducing transportation costs and travel times.

Major expressways such as Ho Chi Minh City – Long Thanh – Dau Giay, Ho Chi Minh City – Trung Luong, and Ben Luc – Long Thanh are being expanded and upgraded. Notably, the Ho Chi Minh City – Moc Bai Expressway is expected to unlock significant trade opportunities with Cambodia and other ASEAN countries, strengthening the City's position in the regional logistics network.

The Long Thanh International Airport, once operational, will serve as a strategic aviation gateway linking Ho Chi Minh City to major global economic hubs. Integrating the airport with road and rail networks will create a comprehensive transport system, enhancing freight capacity and boosting international tourism development.

Investing in Technology and Sustainable Development

Technology will play a vital role in upgrading and operating Ho Chi Minh City's transport infrastructure. Intelligent transport systems (ITS) leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data will be widely adopted to monitor and optimize traffic flows.

The City is also focusing on developing green roadways using eco-friendly materials and energy-saving technologies. These roads will be complemented by urban greenery systems, not only to cool the environment but also to improve air quality, aligning with the vision of a sustainable metropolis.

Sustainable transport also means reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The City is exploring renewable energy solutions such as solar power and fuel cells to operate public transport systems, minimizing negative environmental impacts.

Conclusion

The Ho Chi Minh City Master Plan for 2021–2030, with a vision to 2050, has laid the foundation for a synchronized, intelligent, and sustainable transport system. Key infrastructure projects will not only address current challenges but also provide a strong impetus for the City's future development.

However, realizing these ambitious goals requires collective efforts from the government, businesses, and citizens to drive investment, adopt advanced technologies, and protect the environment. Through these initiatives, Ho Chi Minh City will not only improve residents' quality of life but also reaffirm its role as a leading regional transport and economic hub.