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A Metro Line 1 train halts at Ba Son Station on December 26 due to technical reasons. Illustrative photo: Nguyen Hue

On the evening of December 26, Ho Chi Minh City’s Management Authority for Urban Railways (MAUR) confirmed the incident.

The affected train, bearing the number 1700, was en route from Suoi Tien Bus Station to Ben Thanh Station.

The incident was triggered by a signal malfunction, forcing a train to halt at Ba Son Station around 6:30 p.m. The issue caused a chain reaction that temporarily paralyzed the entire metro line, leaving passengers in a state of confusion.

According to MAUR, during an inspection at Ba Son Station, the control team from Metro Line 1 Operating Company (HURC1) identified certain anomalies in the signaling system that did not align with operational and technical guidelines.

"Since this is a new operational phase for the metro line, absolute safety for passengers, staff, and vehicles remains our top priority," MAUR explained. "After consulting with MAUR and HCMC Urban Railways Company Ltd., the decision was made to temporarily halt the train for a thorough check in coordination with contractor Hitachi."

The inspection took approximately 10 minutes, after which the train resumed operation.

"We sincerely ask passengers on Train 1700 for their understanding during this early operational phase," MAUR stated. "Our service is committed to ensuring both the safety and convenience of all passengers."

Metro Line 1 officially began operations on December 22, marking the culmination of 12 years of construction. During the first month, rides are free for public trial runs.

According to HURC1 statistics, 797 train services have been operated in the first four days, serving 394,967 passengers. The opening day saw the highest ridership with 149,870 passengers, while the second day recorded the lowest at 38,751 passengers.

Tuan Kiet