Buses on the BRT route in Vientiane are set to resume service on March 10.

Trial run of BRT bus system set resume for March 10

Vientiane’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system will resume operation on March 10. As the new service rolls out, a three-month guidance period will help commuters adjust to the changes introduced on city streets.
The project handover expected shortly thereafter, it was announced at recent meeting in the capital.
The meeting was led by the Minister of Public Works and Transport, Mr Leklay Sivilay, and the Mayor of Vientiane, Mr Athsaphangthong Siphandone, to address mounting challenges in the management of the rapidly growing capital.

Transport minister Mr Leklay Sivilay chairs a meeting to discuss the BRT bus service and other aspects of development in Vientiane.

The meeting brought together vice mayors, department directors, and leaders of state enterprises to discuss solutions to issues that have drawn growing public concern, including public transport, water shortages, and deteriorating road conditions.
Central to the discussion was the upcoming trial run of the long-awaited BRT bus service.
Mr Leklay directed the Vientiane Department of Public Works and Transport to finalise all infrastructure and technical preparations in readiness for the rollout out on March 10.
The trial will test operational systems and commuter readiness, marking a major milestone in the capital’s efforts to modernise the transport network.
Officials described the BRT as a priority scheme aimed at easing congestion, improving mobility, and demonstrating tangible progress in urban development.
In addition to transport improvements, authorities tackled the issue of inadequate water supply affecting residents in both central districts and outlying areas.
Water supply officials were instructed to formulate a concrete plan to ensure reliable and equitable access to clean water across the capital.
Road repairs and infrastructure maintenance also featured prominently in the meeting. City officials were tasked with creating a detailed schedule for patching potholes in city centre streets and repairing damaged suburban roads.
Longer-term plans include the surfacing of dirt roads in the suburbs with asphalt, to improve driving conditions and reduce dust levels.
Representatives from service providers including the Vientiane State Bus Enterprise, EDL Vientiane, and the Vientiane Urban Management and Services Office participated in the discussions, underscoring a coordinated approach between national and municipal authorities.
All those present reaffirmed their commitment to transforming Vientiane into a clean, attractive and liveable capital city that reflects its status as the centre of economic growth, culture, and tourism.
With the BRT trial only days away, residents may soon see the first visible step in that direction.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update March 5, 2026)