High-quality HCMC-Da Nang train service launched

May 13 2024 4:32PM

Trains SE22 and SE21, operating both ways between Ho Chi Minh City and the coastal city of Da Nang and equipped with modern amenities, commenced operations on Saturday

Departing from Saigon Railway Station in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 3 at 11 a.m. on Saturday, the inaugural SE22 train transported over 400 passengers and reached Da Nang at 6:05 a.m. the following day.

Conversely, train SE21 left Da Nang Railway Station at 8:15 a.m. on Saturday and arrived in Ho Chi Minh City at approximately 4 a.m. on Sunday.

This marks the launch of the first high-quality train service on this route, aimed at accommodating the growing demand of passengers.

A sleeping compartment on the SE22 and SE21 trains. Photo by VnExpress/Gia Minh

Hoang Gia Khanh, the general director of Vietnam Railways, stated that trains SE21 and SE22 have undergone upgrades and renovations from the finest existing carriages. The exteriors of the trains have been freshly painted in white, gray, and blue.

Internally, the carriages have been redesigned to be more spacious than traditional trains. The interiors are completely refurbished and are now equipped with Wi-Fi and air-conditioning.

Each bed in the sleeper cars comes with a reading light, charging port, new mattresses, blankets, sheets, pillows, and curtains.

Additionally, there is a carriage with 180-degree rotating seats, allowing passengers to adjust their seating direction as needed, located in the seating area.

The dining service carriage is centrally located on the train to minimize travel time for passengers at both ends. There is a carriage with only two beds designed for passengers seeking private space.

A seating compartment on the SE22 and SE21 trains. Photo by VnExpress/Gia Minh

According to Khanh, SE21 and SE22 are the first in the railway sector to upgrade and expand their restrooms to a width of 1.4 meters, compared to the usual one meter. The porcelain wash basins have been newly installed, and the facilities are equipped with exhaust fans and modern waste treatment systems to enhance the quality of service for passengers.

"The introduction of trains SE21 and SE22 is part of our strategy to enhance service quality for passengers," said Khanh. "In addition to fulfilling travel needs, it will also support the development of tourism and the economy in the regions."

Khanh also mentioned that in addition to upgrading equipment and service quality on the train, the railway sector is investing in renovating and beautifying the waiting rooms at railway stations, as well as enhancing service quality at stations in Ho Chi Minh City and the coastal cities of Da Nang and Nha Trang.

A restroom on the SE22 and SE21 trains. Photo by VnExpress/Gia Minh

Currently, the trains maintain regular ticket prices. On weekdays, prices vary from VND544,000-1.9 million (US$21-$75), depending on the type of seat. During weekends and holidays, the prices range from VND900,000-2.9 million.

Previously, Vietnam Railways had launched high-quality trains SE19 and SE20, operating between Hanoi and Da Nang, with ticket prices ranging from VND854,000-1 million.

VnExpress