Vientiane on the Move: BRT Trial Service Set to Roll Out by August’s End

Vientiane Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system

 A New Era of Urban Transport Begins in Laos’ Capital

Vientiane is preparing to take a bold step forward in public transportation with the upcoming launch of its Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. By the end of August 2025, trial operations will begin across the city, offering free service for three months as part of an initial rollout.

This modern and eco-friendly transit initiative promises to reshape daily commuting in the capital, easing congestion while providing a safer, faster, and cleaner way to travel.        

Progress on Track for 2025 Completion

Announced by Vientiane Capital’s Mayor Athsphangthong Siphandone during the 9th Ordinary Session of the Vientiane People’s Council on 7 July, the BRT project is making visible progress. As of early July, construction of the dedicated lanes and station infrastructure stood at over 71 percent completion, with projections to reach 90 percent by the end of the month.

Full system operations are expected to commence by the end of 2025, marking a transformative moment for urban mobility in the city.

    

Modern, Comfortable and Efficient Service

Vientiane’s new BRT fleet features 12-meter-long electric buses manufactured by Chery Wanda in China. Each bus offers air-conditioned interiors and seating for 40 passengers, delivering a more comfortable experience for both locals and tourists. Twenty-eight of the planned 55 buses have already arrived, with the rest expected to follow soon.

Operating daily from 6 am to 10 pm, these buses will run on exclusive BRT lanes to ensure timely service and reduce travel delays caused by traffic congestion. The buses will also integrate with the city’s existing bus network, making the system both accessible and seamless.

 

Connecting the Capital, Supporting Sustainable Growth

The BRT’s initial route includes six strategic stations across Vientiane: Chao Fa Ngum Park, Inpeng Temple, Morning Market (Vientiane Bus Station), Patuxay, Phonekheng, and the National University of Laos. Each location has been selected to serve high-traffic areas, helping reduce congestion in the urban core.

Looking ahead, future phases of the project will extend the BRT system to connect Wattay International Airport and the Laos-China Railway Station. This expansion, scheduled for completion by the end of 2026, will further support domestic and international travellers by linking Vientiane’s key transportation hubs. 

Public Transit With Purpose

Vientiane Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)

Launched in mid-2024, the BRT project reflects a broader vision for sustainable urban development in Vientiane. With electric vehicles, dedicated lanes, and an emphasis on accessibility, the system aligns with Laos’ goals of reducing emissions and promoting green infrastructure.
     
As the city continues to modernise, this ambitious public transport initiative is a powerful statement of its future direction—efficient, eco-conscious, and commuter-friendly.

For more information about the Vientiane BRT system and transport updates, visit:
Vientiane Capital Public Works and Transport Department: https://www.mpwt.gov.la/en/

Tourism Laos – Getting Around: https://www.visitlaos.org/essentials/getting-around/

For more information about Mekong tourism and regional updates, visit:
Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office
Website: www.mekongtourism.org
Email: info@mekongtourism-mtco.org

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