Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Tran Hong Ha visited the Lee & Man Paper Mill in Hau Giang Province and approved its operation after the mill was forced to halt operations for a water pollution investigation.

Ha led the delegation with leaders of Hau Giang, Soc Trang, Vinh Long provinces and Can Tho City along with many scientists to visit and inspect the mill’s wastewater treatment system on October 19. The delegation also visited nearby locals to gather opinions.

Tran Van Nghia in Phu Xuan Hamlet said after being monitored by the authorities, the paper mill had invested and improved the system to prevented foul smells and waste. A number of households still complained about the smell and waste emissions at night, but agreed that the severity had lessened.

Vietnam Environment Administration reported that they had worked closely with local authorities to monitor the mill's operation and submitted monthly reports. Environmental protection work at the mill has been completed and approved by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. The administration proposed letting the paper mill resume operations.  

Local authorities suggested setting up an environmental monitoring unit for the Hau River due to the high number of factories located along this river.

"Based on these results, Vietnam Environment Administration will be given one week to check the procedures and issue operation permit to Lee & Man Paper Mill," Ha said. "Local authorities must continue monitoring the environment and gather opinions from the public."

He also agreed that monitoring stations are needed especially in adjacent areas between provinces. However, Hau Giang provincial authorities first needed to operate and maintain six existing monitoring stations along the Hau River.

In April, fish farmers in Hau Giang Province decided to stop their work for fear of possible wastewater discharges from the Lee & Man plant. Many owners sold their cages at cheap prices to recoup some money. They were afraid that the discharge from Lee & Man paper mill nearby would badly affect their fish. 

Last year, the local authorities visited and advised them not to raise fish.  

dtinews