Creating a breakthrough mechanism for metro development.

Metro

SGGPO 12/05/2023 14:24

Ho Chi Minh City is currently proposing to the National Assembly a special and superior mechanism for its development, including a proposal to focus on urban transportation development. Once approved by the National Assembly, Ho Chi Minh City will be a pioneer in implementing TOD (Transit-Oriented Development), with urban rail being the core element.

On May 12th, the Ho Chi Minh City Urban Railway Management Board (MAUR) organized a workshop on Transport-Oriented Development (TOD) and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) for urban railway systems.

Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Bui Xuan Cuong; Mr. Kurose Yasuo, First Secretary of the Japanese Embassy, ​​along with representatives of JICA in Vietnam and Japanese businesses, attended the event.

Vice Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Bui Xuan Cuong speaks at the workshop. Photo: QUOC HUNG

Speaking at the workshop, Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Bui Xuan Cuong emphasized that TOD (Transit-Oriented Development), implemented through public-private partnerships (PPP), is a strength of Japan, having successfully implemented it. Currently, Ho Chi Minh City is proposing to the National Assembly a special mechanism for its development, including a proposal to focus on urban transport development (metro lines 1 and 2). Once approved by the National Assembly, the city will be a pioneer in implementing TOD, with urban rail being the core. Therefore, the discussions are crucial, contributing to the policy for TOD development, including the development of the urban rail system.

“The workshop aims for frank discussions to raise awareness among the government and investors about policy mechanisms for railway development through Japan's experience; thereby improving the institutional framework and legal basis, especially relevant laws; and policies to recommend the development of TOD and PPP models, including models for implementing related financial mechanisms, while drawing lessons and notes that can be applied in the future,” Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Bui Xuan Cuong requested.

Vice Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Bui Xuan Cuong exchanges views with Japanese partners. Photo: QUOC HUNG

Speaking at the seminar, Mr. Kurose Yasuo, First Secretary of the Japanese Embassy, ​​emphasized that Ho Chi Minh City is a major economic center of Vietnam and Japan is very interested in and focused on cooperation. Currently, Japan, through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has promoted development through many projects, most notably Metro Line 1. This line has already undergone trial runs and is just one step away from becoming operational, and the people are eagerly awaiting its completion.

However, Mr. Yasuo argued that a single metro line would have limited effectiveness. Therefore, the TOD (Transit-Oriented Development) model would contribute to increasing the effect. Japan is very interested in strengthening the connection between metro and bus services, and planning urban functions along railway lines… in order to achieve results where people's lives are not dependent on private vehicles.

Scene at the workshop. Photo: QUOC HUNG

At the workshop, delegates shared experiences on the TOD model, which aims to guide the development of public transportation, with urban rail systems playing a leading role, as a basis for urban planning and development to improve land use efficiency, public works, reduce traffic congestion and environmental pollution…

The TOD (Transit-Oriented Development) model, linked to land development, is a fundamental and long-term solution, especially in generating investment resources for the development of urban rail networks. Simultaneously, adjusting policies and building and perfecting institutions to accelerate the implementation of urban rail systems is essential.

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/tao-co-che-dot-pha-phat-trien-metro-post689352.html