Ho Chi Minh City rolls out free bus fares, service upgrades to boost public transport use

These measures are part of the city’s broader strategy to promote public transport, ease traffic congestion and reduce emissions in Vietnam’s largest urban hub.

The free-fare policy, a key measure to boost bus ridership, will apply to 134 out of 135 bus routes in Ho Chi Minh City from July 1 to December 31 this year, with an exception for route No. 172, which connects downtown Ho Chi Minh City with Vung Tau and passes through Dong Nai Province.

In preparation, transport authorities and bus operators have been working simultaneously on five key groups of tasks, including operational adjustments, infrastructure upgrades, ticketing and refund arrangements, communication campaigns, and improvements in passenger services.

The rollout has been carried out in a coordinated and accelerated manner across all agencies involved.

One of the most visible changes has been the upgrade of the bus fleet and service quality.

New and modern buses have been introduced across multiple routes, featuring improved seating, air-conditioning systems, clearer route information, more comfortable interiors and upgraded handrails, aiming to enhance the overall passenger experience and make public transport more attractive.

At the same time, the city has been reviewing and adjusting ticketing policies to ensure a smooth transition to free fares.

Passengers who have already purchased bus tickets or monthly passes will be able to exchange them or receive refunds under clear and simplified procedures, helping to avoid financial losses and maintain public trust during the transition period.

They will also be able to pay fares using bank cards via on-board ticket machines, alongside existing ticketing options, as part of efforts to modernize payment systems and improve convenience.

Infrastructure improvements have also been a major focus.

Bus stops and shelters across the city are being renovated or newly installed with more modern designs, better lighting and enhanced passenger convenience features.

Some newly designed bus shelters are equipped with phone charging ports and other utilities, reflecting efforts to make waiting areas more user-friendly and better suited to daily commuters.

The design of bus shelters has drawn active public discussion, with authorities receiving a wide range of feedback from residents on aesthetics, comfort and practicality.

This feedback is being taken into account in ongoing adjustments, alongside broader public consultation efforts aimed at ensuring transport infrastructure better reflects passenger needs.

Alongside physical upgrades, Ho Chi Minh City has stepped up communication efforts to inform residents about the upcoming free bus policy.

Campaigns have been launched to explain how the system will operate, which routes are included and what changes passengers can expect in terms of services and ticketing.

Officials said that raising public awareness is a key factor in encouraging behavioural change, especially in a city where motorbikes remain the dominant mode of transport.

In addition, transport agencies have emphasized service quality improvements, including better driver training, cleaner vehicles and more consistent operating schedules, to ensure reliability as passenger numbers are expected to increase once fares are removed.

Public reactions and feedback have also been actively recorded in recent weeks, particularly regarding bus shelter designs and convenience features.

These opinions are being reviewed by relevant agencies as part of ongoing adjustments to improve the passenger experience.