The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment said relevant agencies will launch an inspection into mining activity at Nui Phao Mining Co Ltd in August in the wake of allegations that the company has caused environmental pollution in the northern province of Thai Nguyen.

Local people hang a banner protesting Nui Phao project in 2015.

The decision was made after a working session between the ministry and the authority of Thai Nguyen on the firm’s mining activity and its compliance with environment regulations.

The province has received complaints from locals in Dai Tu District about pollution allegedly caused by the company.

The ministry approved a proposal for an inspection focusing on various aspects, including environmental protection measures and mining activity.

Inspectors of the ministry have been assigned to lead the task and collaborate with other agencies and experts in related areas.

Nui Phao Mining would be ordered to adopt appropriate measures to deal with environmental issues based on the inspection results.

The ministry also asked the firm to assess its operations’ impact on the environment and local residents. From this assessment, the ministry will consider and devise a resettlement plan for residents in Ha Thuong Commune if necessary.

The firm will also have to submit a report detailing changes in its project’s size, capacity and technologies on mining and processing minerals.

To facilitate the inspection, Thai Nguyen Province will provide the ministry with records of environmental issues and information on the relocation of residents in all areas affected.