"The Happy Train" on New Year's Eve – A journey of reunion to celebrate the Year of the Horse.

The "Happy Train" SE3, a project jointly implemented by Nhan Dan Newspaper , Vietnam Railways Corporation , and Coteccons Construction Joint Stock Company, officially departed from Hanoi Station heading south, carrying 450 passengers on a journey of reunion.

"The 'Happy Train' on New Year's Eve departs from Hanoi Station." Photo: Nhan Dan Newspaper

Before departure, leaders from the Nhan Dan Newspaper and the Ministry of Construction were present to encourage railway staff and passengers. Journalist Le Quoc Minh, Member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam, Editor-in-Chief of the Nhan Dan Newspaper, Deputy Head of the Central Propaganda and Mass Mobilization Department, and President of the Vietnam Journalists Association, and Deputy Minister of Construction Nguyen Danh Huy extended New Year greetings, inquired about the well-being of the train crew, presented gifts to the SE3 train team, and gave lucky money to passengers. Many also received a copy of the Tet (Lunar New Year) issue of the newspaper, "Spring Takes Off," as a token of encouragement before embarking on their long journey.

Leaders from Nhan Dan Newspaper and the Ministry of Construction visited and presented gifts to the crew members on duty aboard the ship. Photo: Nhan Dan Newspaper.

The train is expected to make its final stop in Ho Chi Minh City after a long journey across the country. Of the 450 passengers on board, the majority are migrant workers taking advantage of this last train of the year to return home for family reunions. In addition, there are families choosing to travel for the spring season.

Although each person had their own story, the common feeling upon boarding the train was one of surprise and delight. Many passengers said they felt appreciated, from the way the train carriages were decorated and the service provided to the small gifts given to them personally.

Journalist Le Quoc Minh, Editor-in-Chief of Nhan Dan Newspaper, gives New Year's lucky money to passengers on the train. Photo: Nhan Dan Newspaper.

“The Happy Train” is an initiative launched by the Nhan Dan Newspaper in collaboration with the railway industry and Coteccons Construction Joint Stock Company, starting from February 2, 2026. The program aims to create an emotionally rich journey, combining cultural elements, traditional cuisine, and modern service experiences. Through this activity, the image of the railway is refreshed, connecting historical heritage with contemporary life, while simultaneously promoting Vietnam and its people.

Presenting the Lunar New Year edition of Nhan Dan Newspaper (Year of the Horse) to passengers. Photo: Nhan Dan Newspaper

Sharing his thoughts on the idea, journalist Le Quoc Minh, Editor-in-Chief of Nhan Dan Newspaper, said that the train, named Nhan Dan, is associated with characteristic cultural activities during Tet (Lunar New Year), aiming to spread the beauty of Vietnam to friends both domestically and internationally. The support of the railway industry – a sector undergoing strong transformation – helps to realize this idea through concrete experiences.

More than just a journey, the "Happy Train" has become a symbol of sharing and social responsibility, contributing to connecting different regions of the country. Especially during the transition from the old year to the new, this journey carries faith, hope, and wishes for peace to everyone.

Source: https://hanoimoi.vn/chuyen-tau-hanh-phuc-dem-giao-thua-hanh-trinh-sum-vay-don-tet-binh-ngo-733860.html