Ho Chi Minh City Bus Route Overload Causes Extended Commutes for Students

The overcrowding on Ho Chi Minh City's key bus route, the 'Number 50,' is significantly extending student commute times. One parent shared that their son's journey to university, initially estimated at around 40 minutes, now takes up to two and a half hours. This situation runs counter to the city's policy of encouraging a shift to public transportation. The parent's son commutes to Ho Chi Minh City National University from the Go Vap district. Route 50, which covers approximately 16 km from home to university, was initially an ideal, direct route with no transfers, taking about 40 minutes. However, the situation changed drastically after the new semester began. Especially during post-school hours, it has become common for Route 50 to be so full that boarding is impossible. Consequently, the son is forced to take an indirect route, first transferring to Route 161 and then to Route 08. This detour can take about 1.5 hours one way, and nearly three hours for a round trip. "If the city encourages a shift to public transport, its quality must also be maintained," the parent stated. The reality of being unable to board or facing long waits due to overcrowding severely impacts students' study and rest time. Witnessing students waiting in the rain or sweltering heat, the parent feels that public transportation has deviated from its intended purpose. Specifically, the limited bus network along Pham Van Dong Boulevard is highlighted as a problem. This boulevard is a vital artery connecting the northeast to Tan Son Nhat International Airport and the northern/northwestern parts of the city, yet direct bus routes are scarce. The parent suggests that the city authorities should consider adding new routes along this boulevard to alleviate the excessive passenger load on Route 50. Furthermore, regarding access to Ho Chi Minh City National University, while connections from the southern and southwestern parts of the city are relatively good, direct links from northwestern areas like Cu Chi, Hoc Mon, and District 12 are lacking. The parent proposes the development of a new route network connecting these areas to the university. While acknowledging that their experience may not represent the entire system, the parent emphasizes the importance of authorities investigating such on-the-ground issues and implementing appropriate solutions. They express hope that if public transportation becomes more convenient, punctual, and safe, more families will opt for it over private vehicles. Source: VnExpress