According to a decision issued by the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee (UBND) on 26/1, Thaco is authorized to conduct research and prepare a feasibility study report for Metro Line 2, specifically the Ben Thanh - Thu Thiem section. This authorization includes submitting a capability profile and a draft research contract.

The Ben Thanh - Thu Thiem section is part of Ho Chi Minh City's Metro Line 2, which has a total length of over 62 km. The complete line comprises the Ben Thanh - Thu Thiem, Ben Thanh - Tham Luong sections, and an extension to the Tay Bac Cu Chi Urban Area.

This project is among the urgent priorities for investment by Ho Chi Minh City, with construction anticipated to begin this year. It aims to help the city achieve its target of 187 km of urban railway by 2030. The line will also serve as a crucial connection from Ben Thanh Station to Thu Thiem, linking to the Thu Thiem - Long Thanh railway that leads to Long Thanh Airport.

The Ben Thanh underground station area in central Ho Chi Minh City, the starting point of the Ben Thanh - Thu Thiem metro project. Photo: Giang Anh

Thaco's proposal outlines the Ben Thanh - Thu Thiem section as approximately 5,58 km long, featuring 6 underground stations. The preliminary estimated total investment is about 33,000 billion VND. The project is proposed to be implemented under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, specifically a build-transfer (BT) contract, where the investor would be compensated with transit-oriented development (TOD) land funds along the route and optimal land areas at the depot location.

The city emphasizes that approving the company's request to conduct research and propose options does not imply approval of the investment method, selection of an investor, or a commitment to use the study results for project implementation.

Should the feasibility study report not be approved, not be completed on time, or if the city decides to implement the project using different capital sources or investment models, Thaco will bear all study costs and will not be reimbursed. The city may, however, refer to and utilize the study's data in accordance with regulations.

The city government has instructed relevant departments and units to support Thaco throughout the research process. This support aims to ensure synchronization with existing planning, technology, technical standards, connectivity, and the overall operation of the metro system. Upon completion of the study, the Department of Finance will lead the coordination with relevant units to compile the findings and advise competent authorities on the project's implementation.

Previously, the Ben Thanh - Tham Luong section of Metro Line 2 commenced construction on 15/1, while the remaining section extending to the Tay Bac Cu Chi Urban Area is currently under investment study.

Giang Anh