Due to unexpected delays because of the COVID-19 situation, the new metro trains are set to arrive in Ho Chi Minh this October from Japan. Originally, these trains were scheduled to arrive in the country last April of this year including 6 Japanese engineers however with travel restrictions in place, this has been moved to a later date.
These engineers arrived 18th of September and have completed the mandatory 14-day quarantine. They will then assist in installing the train tracks and equipment maintenance according to the HCMC Management Authority.
On the other hand, the expected train coaches will undergo a 14-day quarantine following the mandated policy to avoid the spread of the disease. They are scheduled to arrive at Khanh Hoi Port located at District 4 and will then be taken to the Long Binh Depot in District 9 this month.
These 17 made in Japan trains measure 21 meters long and weigh 37 tons each. Boasting a staggering maximum capacity of 930 passengers with 147 seats. These will soon take the route on the 19.7-KM railway from Ben Thanh Market located in District 1 stretching to the Suoi Tien theme park District 9.
The construction of this route began way back August of 2012 and is targeted to reach 85% completion by the end of this year. It is also projected to start its commercial operation by next year!
This project has cost 43.7 trillion (Approx. $1.89 billion) comprising 14 stations wherein there are 11 elevated stations and 3 underground.
