The city currently operates 155 bus routes, including 128 subsidised routes, 11 non-subsidised routes, 13 connecting routes and three city tour routes using double-decker buses, with a fleet of more than 1,800 vehicles.

The city already provides free bus travel for several groups, including people with meritorious service, persons with disabilities, the elderly, children under six and members of low-income households, under Resolution No.07 issued by the municipal People’s Council.

Expanding free bus fares would increase subsidy costs, but officials said the policy is part of social welfare efforts, helping residents access bus services more easily while reducing private vehicle use, congestion and environmental pollution.

An official from the department said relevant units are outlining scenarios and subsidy levels for expanding free bus services to additional groups, ensuring the city’s budget balance before submitting proposals to the municipal People’s Committee.

Meanwhile, Ho Chi Minh City is proposing to waive fares across all 135 intra-city bus routes, including both subsidised and non-subsidised services. The policy is being finalised for submission to the municipal People’s Council.

As the southern city faces rising traffic pressure, the proposal is described as a bold step aimed at encouraging a shift from motorbikes to public transport and supporting sustainable urban development.

The city estimates annual funding of around VND7 trillion (US$280 million) to carry out the policy. The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction has been tasked with developing implementation plans.

Currently, Ho Chi Minh City provides free bus travel for people aged 60 and above, children under six, people with meritorious service and persons with disabilities, with annual funding of about VND 1.7 trillion. Subsidies are also provided for students, while standard fares range from VND 5,000 to VND 7,000 per trip.

Municipal officials said that beyond fare exemptions, improving service quality, expanding route networks and ensuring punctuality are key to encouraging commuters to switch from motorbikes.

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction is assigned to restructure the system to improve efficiency and passenger experience.

The southern metropolis is also aiming to increase the share of electric buses through financial mechanisms. The city currently operates around 2,300 buses, including about 1,300 electric vehicles.

Officials said a universal fare waiver would ease traffic pressure, improve environmental conditions, help lower-income residents reduce travel costs, and limit emissions from older motorbikes.

In addition to public transport, the municipal Party Standing Committee has agreed in principle to waive certain border gate infrastructure fees, following a proposal by the municipal People’s Committee, to support businesses amid rising fuel costs.

Ho Chi Minh City offers free metro, bus rides on election day

Residents in Ho Chi Minh City will enjoy free rides on Metro Line No.1 (Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien) and bus services on March 15 to facilitate local voters' travel on election day.