The HCM City People’s Committee has extended the construction completion deadline for the Bến Thành–Suối Tiên metro line (Metro Line 1) to Q4 2026, one year later than planned.
A train operates on the Bến Thành–Suối Tiên metro line in HCM City. — VNA/VNS Photo Hồng Đạt
Although HCM City's first metro line started commercial operation in late 2024, the timeline adjustment is intended to address certain technical defects and fully resolve contractors’ complaints.
The project was initially scheduled for completion between 2024 and 2028. The main investor noted that the remaining works fall within the scope of tasks stipulated in signed contracts and are covered by the approved total capital, and therefore will not affect the project’s finances.
The warranty period for contractors has been extended from late 2024 through the end of 2026 instead of 2025. Operational support and maintenance continue until the end of 2028.
The city’s People’s Committee assigned the project investor, HCM City Urban Railway Management Board (MAUR), to implement the plan in strict compliance with regulations, ensuring quality, efficiency and progress, avoiding delays or extensions beyond the Q4 2026 deadline.
MAUR is also required to strengthen cost management and control to prevent expenses arising from the timeline adjustment. In case of additional costs, the investor and relevant units must promptly propose solutions in line with regulations, and report to authorities for consideration and approval.
At the same time, MAUR must coordinate with relevant agencies to settle contractors’ complaints and outstanding issues, ensuring they do not affect the project’s progress or effectiveness.
The timeline adjustment is mainly due to constraints in mobilising workers for construction and in importing equipment.
One of the contractors, CP3, has yet to fully resolve technical defects involving the signalling system, vibration-damping components and the automated fare collection system. Additionally, complaints and outstanding issues with Hitachi, another contractor, have not yet been resolved, as an agreement on implementation methods has not been reached.
Many of these complaints and additional issues are complex and have persisted for an extended period of time, making them difficult to resolve quickly. Maintaining operational consultancy services, training and procuring additional consumables also requires more time in 2026 to ensure the line operates safely and efficiently.
HCM City’s Metro Line 1, also known as the Bến Thành–Suối Tiên line, has a total length of 19.7km, including 2.6km underground and 17.1km elevated, with 14 stations and the Long Bình depot.
With a total investment of more than VNĐ43 trillion (US$1.6 billion) sourced from official development assistance loans, the line officially began commercial operations on December 22, 2024.
The project marks a major milestone in the development of a mass rapid transit system in Việt Nam's largest economic hub. After more than one year, this metro line has served over 20 million passengers, exceeding initial targets.