Hong Van Canal was built for irrigation purposes by Hong Van Irrigation Company. The water comes from the Red River, irrigating the fields in Thuong Tin and Phu Xuyen districts. The canal is now a place for local people to swim and bathe every day.

Ms. Ha, a local resident, said there was no swimming pool in the region, so the canal has become a giant pool.

The canal opened in summer 2012. Since then it has been crowded with swimmers during summer.

The deepest locations are approximately 2 m. Many children have life jackets. No accident has been reported.

Local people said the water is very clean, and does not cause rashes.

4pm is the most crowded time.

Vehicles park along the canal.

"We cannot afford to go to sea or water parks, so this safe bathing place is a great thing," said Mr. Dam.