People prefer 2-wheel means because they are more active, more convenient, faster and more economical. Public modes cannot meet such requirements and are not chosen by the people. From my viewpoint, that is the biggest barrier against the expected development of a mass transit system. And to crack the barrier, it is required to fulfill following points:
First we should organize our public routes properly and rationally, no matter what mode it is, bus, tram or metro. What I mean is that we need to develop a proper network to give convenience to the people. And the Government should formulate price subsidy policy to encourage transport users.
Secondly, in terms of capital mobilization, the most important thing is that whether it is attractive or not. Because at the moment, I am sure that there is a huge potential fund that can be contributed by the people themselves. If the project, the plan is attractive and convincing, I think, we can rely on the people's resources much. We can see that situation in stock market, where HAPHACO's rate keeps increasing. Why? Because the people know that they can trust the firm effective operation as they buy its bonds. Similarly, if we can formulate an effective transport system, we can attract much money from the people.
Mr.Phan Thai Birth, Chief of Transport Department, HCMC TUPWS
It is based on the study prepared by TDSI South that now is the time to construct an urban railway system, as the transport demand has been high enough. But in my opinion, even if we had such a system constructed now, it was additionally required for a support policy, which should be adequate and consistent. Otherwise, the system would not be able to develop. Because, after the construction, the system can only meet travel demand once the policy is converted into regulations or rules, which are introduced by local authorities.
We have worked with French side, and according to them, a similar system in Paris requires for the subsidy from the government (50%) for operation costs. So the controversial issue here is the way we think to solve it. How will we settle the problems and issues of motorcycles, cars and metros? If it is not made clear, we can do nothing.
And as mentioned earlier, I also think that we can find financial sources from our people. But because of unclear policy and viewpoint on the issue, its effectiveness has not fully been shown. In the future, when average income of the people is improved, they can easily pay for transport costs and it is also a potential source to invest in transport system.
Besides, we should handle other related issues such as urban management and road function classification. At present, road functions are not clear, which cause slow traffic flows. If road functions are respected, it will be a good factor to help improve the current situation of the urban transport system.