Ho Chi Minh City buses carry 25.5 million passengers during free fare period

Ho Chi Minh City's bus network has carried over 25.5 million passengers during a three-month period of free fares on 134 routes. The fare subsidy, which began on July 1, has led to a significant shift in local travel habits, with many residents moving away from motorbike use toward public transit.

According to Le Hoan, Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Public Transport Management Centre, passenger trips increased by 47% year-on-year between July 1 and September 19, averaging approximately 315,975 trips per day. Monthly data shows continued growth, with July seeing 8.56 million trips (up 40% year-on-year) and August reaching 9.49 million trips (up 58% year-on-year). Recent weekly increases have reached between 60% and 70%.

While residents noted improvements in comfort and punctuality, some highlighted the need for further network expansion to reach certain alleys and roads, reducing the need for long walks or ride-hailing services. The city is expected to continue upgrading infrastructure and vehicles.