HÀ NỘI — To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South and national reunification (April 30, 1975 – 2025), the Vietnam Railways Corporation (VNR) will operate a specially designed pair of trains under the name Đoàn Tàu Thống Nhất (Reunification Train), highlighting the profound historical significance of the milestone event.

The railway connecting Hà Nội and Hồ Chí Minh City, known as the North–South Railway, was indeed inaugurated on National Day, September 2, 1976. It marked a significant milestone in Vietnam's transportation history. — File Photo

As part of nationwide commemorative efforts, the railway sector is organising various activities both onboard and at stations to offer passengers a memorable and engaging travel experience during this historic occasion.

According to VNR, the Reunification Train will consist of two services: SE1 departing from Hà Nội Station and SE4 departing from Saigon Station on the evening of April 29. The two trains will meet at Đà Nẵng Station at exactly 12 noon on April 30.

During the send-off ceremonies, passengers will receive surprise gifts. Beyond a regular train ride, this journey aims to reflect on the nation’s past and deepen appreciation for peace and unity today.

On the occasion, the railway sector is offering a 40 per cent ticket discount to people who rendered service to the revolution – including war invalids, sick soldiers, veterans, and relatives of fallen or honoured soldiers. This special offer is valid for tickets purchased between April 24 and May 9 and can be redeemed directly at railway stations upon presentation of valid documentation.

In a creative digital initiative, passengers purchasing tickets during the holiday period will also contribute to building a virtual Thống Nhất Train on the online ticketing platform. For each successful booking, a national flag will appear on the system, symbolising national pride and unity.

To meet the surge in travel demand during the holiday, VNR has opened early ticket sales and added more services on key routes. On the Hà Nội – Hồ Chí Minh City line, in addition to the five daily Thống Nhất trains, two more SE9 services will run on April 29 and 30 from Hà Nội to Sài Gòn.

Additional trains have also been scheduled on other popular routes, including Hà Nội – Hải Phòng, Sài Gòn – Đà Nẵng, Sài Gòn – Quy Nhơn, Sài Gòn – Nha Trang, Sài Gòn – Phan Thiết, Hà Nội – Đà Nẵng, and Hà Nội – Đồng Hới. — VNA/VNS