Authorities in Khanh Hoa have tasked the provincial police with investigating the operation of reservoirs following a historic flood event that caused severe and widespread damage.

The Khanh Hoa Provincial People’s Committee has instructed the provincial police to inspect and review the procedures for flood discharge at reservoirs across the region. This move comes in response to prolonged, heavy rains that triggered severe flooding between November 17 and 22, an event many have described as unprecedented in the province's history.

Flooding submerged large areas and isolated numerous communities as rivers and streams surged past historical levels. The situation worsened as multiple hydropower and irrigation reservoirs - including Da Nhim - discharged water, contributing to extensive damage to property, agriculture, infrastructure, and residents’ livelihoods.

In light of this, the Chairman of the Khanh Hoa People’s Committee ordered the police to collaborate with the Central Hydrometeorological Station, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, and other relevant units to investigate and verify how reservoirs were operated during the flooding.

Authorities are focusing on key reservoirs, including Song Cai, Nuoc Ngot, Suoi Dau, Am Chua, and Da Nhim. The investigation aims to determine whether flood discharges followed approved protocols and responded appropriately to real-time weather conditions and directives from the provincial government.

Investigators must also identify any violations or responsibilities of individuals or organizations whose actions may have negatively impacted downstream communities.

The findings of the investigation must be submitted to the provincial government by December 15 for review and further action.

Calls for accountability amid widespread devastation

The floods swept through many areas of Khanh Hoa, particularly affecting communes in Tay Khanh Son, Ninh Hoa, and Hoa Tri. Raging, muddy floodwaters inundated residential areas, triggering landslides and isolating households.

In Vo Kien village, residents endured five days and nights of total isolation - without electricity or clean water. Community leaders and local volunteers worked around the clock, guiding and supporting their neighbors like one extended family.

Although floodwaters began receding by November 21 in communes such as Dien Khanh, entire hamlets remained underwater and completely isolated, making rescue operations extremely difficult.

Xuan Ngoc