HCMC – Turning down its HCMC subordinate unit’s proposal over opening tech-based mini bus routes in the city, the Transport Ministry said it is not in accordance with regulations in the 2008 Law on Road Traffic, the Government’s Decree 10/2020 on the transport business and its conditions, the ministry’s Circular 12/2020 stipulating the organization and management of auto transport activities and road traffic supporting services.
As for another proposal of the HCMC Transport Department to introduce public transport services using small cars with less than 17 seats and not setting up a floor space for standing passengers, the ministry asked the department to collate more feedback to execute the proposal in line with the Government’s Decree No. 10.
In early July, the municipal Transport Department wrote to the ministry proposing the launch of six tech-based mini bus routes. These mini buses will connect new urban areas and industrial parks with major public transport routes.
Unlike traveling via regular buses, passengers will use Godee, a mobile app, to book trips on mini buses and make payments through credit cards, domestic ATM cards and e-wallets. The bus fares will range between VND30,000 and VND40,000 during rush hour and VND10,000 and VND30,000 during off-peak hours.
The department stressed that these mini buses will be operated by transport firms without tapping the State budget. Moreover, the operation of these buses will not affect that of the existing buses but will help increase the connectivity of the city’s public bus system.
By Le Anh
