In its initial operational phase, the Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien Metro Line 1 experienced a few challenges due to weather conditions and technical issues, resulting in emergency stops to ensure passenger safety.

This information was shared by the project investor at a media briefing on January 17.

According to Mr. Phan Cong Bang, Head of the Ho Chi Minh City Urban Railway Management Board (MAUR), Metro Line 1 has officially been operational since December 22, 2024. Over nearly a month, it has garnered significant public interest and support, especially on weekends.

“We are delighted by the enthusiastic response to Metro Line 1. However, during this initial phase, some issues have arisen due to weather and technical factors,” Mr. Bang remarked.

Technical challenges and adjustments

The metro’s electromechanical systems, signaling equipment, and train operation mechanisms were part of Package 3 implemented by Japan's Hitachi Corporation. Although the contract was signed in 2013, installation only began at the end of 2020.

These systems were manufactured and installed according to Japanese standards. However, Vietnam does not yet have specific standards for urban railways.

After more than four years of exposure to Ho Chi Minh City’s hot, humid weather and high levels of fine dust, certain components, such as platform screen doors, have experienced minor faults.

“We anticipated these issues during trial runs and addressed them during conditional acceptance by the contractor. All related problems, including those with signaling and screen doors, will be resolved by March 30,” Mr. Bang assured.

Emergency stops due to external factors

One notable incident occurred on December 27, when lightning struck near Tan Cang Station, causing an operational halt.

Mr. Bang explained that after the lightning strike, there were two recovery options: automatic restoration or manual inspection of the entire electrical system followed by manual operation.

“While automatic recovery was possible, we opted for manual inspection, as recommended by consultants and the Japanese contractor, given that this was the early phase of operations. This choice required more time and caused temporary service disruption,” he noted.

He emphasized that similar teething issues are common during the initial phases of metro systems in other countries, and the team seeks passengers’ understanding as they work to optimize operations.

MAUR plans to collaborate closely with relevant units to thoroughly inspect and evaluate system errors, committing to resolving all issues within six months of identification.

“Every service interruption deeply concerns us. Our operations team strives to address each issue promptly and find comprehensive solutions,” Mr. Bang added.

Tuan Kiet