Ho Chi Minh City to pilot low emission zones and integrated transport payments

Ho Chi Minh City is planning significant transformations to its urban transport and environmental policies. Starting in 2027, the city aims to implement an integrated payment system for various modes of public transport, including buses, the Metro Line 1, water buses, and potentially taxis or bicycles. This system is expected to offer daily, weekly, and monthly passes to facilitate seamless travel.

In terms of environmental regulation, the city is drafting a roadmap to establish Low Emission Zones (LEZ). A pilot phase is proposed to begin on January 1, 2028, covering the existing central district and the Thu Thiem New Urban Area. This phase will restrict high-emission gasoline and diesel vehicles. The LEZ is expected to expand to include the area within Ring Road 2 by 2030. The city's long-term goal is for all road vehicles to use clean energy by 2045.

To support this transition, the city plans to mandate that all provincial buses switch to clean energy by 2027, followed by taxis and two-wheeled delivery vehicles by 2030. Authorities are also considering temporary exemptions for using sidewalks and roadsides to install electric charging infrastructure.