Lam Dong Declares Emergency Over Cracked Hill Near Residential Area

Lam Dong province in Vietnam's Central Highlands has declared a state of emergency due to significant land instability and cracking on a hill near a residential area. The affected location is a hill in Dak Snao village, Quang Son commune, where multiple ground cracks, approximately 300 meters long, and subsidence have been observed. The area, facing landslide risks, spans over 4 hectares and impacts 79 households comprising 454 residents. On September 20, the Chairman of the Lam Dong Provincial People's Committee declared a natural disaster emergency situation in Dak Snao village due to the complex developments of subsidence, ground cracking, and landslide risks. The cracked hill area has been cordoned off to prevent people from approaching. According to the provincial government's decision, the affected area covers more than 4 hectares, with an average ground subsidence of about 20 cm. Numerous cracks, ranging from 6 to 17 cm wide, have appeared along the hillside and near the residential area, measuring approximately 300 meters in length. These cracks are assessed to be developing rapidly and show a tendency to continue widening. From September 1 to 18, the subsidence and landslide situation directly affected 79 households with 454 people in Dak Snao village. The provincial authorities have determined that the soil in the area shows signs of serious instability. They warn that continued heavy rainfall and water infiltration could increase the risk of landslides and rock collapses, threatening residents' homes, health, and lives. The Quang Son Commune People's Committee has been tasked with installing warning signs, deploying personnel to guard the area, preventing residents from entering dangerous zones, and relocating affected households to safety. Residents from the danger zone have been moved to temporary shelters in Quang Son commune. The Management Board of Construction Investment Project No. 3 will coordinate with Quang Son commune to conduct in-depth geological surveys and assessments to identify the causes and extent of the sliding, and propose long-term solutions. If the current area cannot be stabilized, commune authorities will review land availability and propose the construction of a new resettlement area in a location with stable geology, free from landslide risks, and convenient for student access to schools. Earlier, on September 17, Mr. Doan Van Phuong, Chairman of the Quang Son Commune People's Committee, stated that local authorities had mobilized and urgently evacuated residents from the dangerous area to temporary shelters constructed with bamboo and tarpaulin. Local forces assisted residents in moving people and property to safety. Source: VnExpress