The city’s People’s Committee announced Saturday that the move aims to make it easier for residents and visitors to attend celebrations and visit historic sites while easing traffic congestion and cutting emissions.
The Cat Linh–Ha Dong and Nhon–Cau Giay metro lines, along with 128 subsidized bus routes, will distribute single-ride tickets free of charge. Passengers will receive tickets as usual but will not need to pay.
To accommodate higher demand, metro operating hours will be extended. On Aug. 21, 24, 27, and 29, trains will run from 5:30 a.m. to midnight; on Aug. 30 from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.; on Sept. 1 from 5:30 a.m. to midnight; and on Sept. 2 from midnight until 10 p.m., with trains running every six minutes during peak times and every 10 minutes off-peak.
Key bus routes through the city center include 09A from Hoan Kiem Lake to Nguyen Hoang Ton Street, 22A from Gia Lam to Kim Ma, E09 from Smart City in Tay Mo Ward to West Lake, 32 from Giap Bat to Nhon Station, and the Yen Nghia–Kim Ma Bus Rapid Transit line. Local wards have been instructed to open schools, stadiums, and public offices as temporary parking lots.
In preparation for the holiday, Hanoi will also provide free water, snacks, and shelters, as well as transportation services to bring residents, especially seniors, from neighboring areas into the city. Authorities will prioritize seating for veterans, the elderly, women, and children, while ensuring order along parade routes.
Rehearsals are scheduled for Aug. 21, 24, 27, and 30, with the official National Day ceremony, parade, and march set for 6:30 a.m. on Sept. 2.
