Ticket inspector Đặng Văn Nguyên (left) at work. — Photo nld.com.vn

Tết is a time to rest and rejuvenate and also to reunite with your family, but spare a thought for those duty-bound by the nature of their professions to work through the holiday. 

Nguyễn Thị Huyền, a street cleaner in Hanoi Urban Environment LTD Company, is one of of those dedicated individuals. Having been in the field for 20 years, she is no stranger to strenuous Tết days when she and her co-workers have to work round the clock to clear the waste from the streets. 

"As waste has been piling up quickly since the 10th day of Lunar December, we have to work extra hours to keep the streets clean and tidy," said Huyền.

With the COVID-19 pandemic being in check this year, there is a surge in festive events, adding to the workload. One hotspot is the flower market at Mỹ Đình National Stadium where a grand fireworks show will take place on New Year's Eve.  

Huyền and her co-workers are gearing up for the event keeping the market and its surrounding areas free from litter.

"After vendors close their shops on the 30th Lunar December evening, we begin to collect rubbish to prepare the place for the fireworks show."

"We will work until around 3am on New Year's Day," said Phạm Thị Thu, a Huyền's co-worker.

Đặng Văn Nguyên works as a ticket inspector at Sài Gòn Train Station. As people travel more in the days leading up to Tết, the railways have increased services to meet demand.

And Nguyên will be among the employees who stay on duty through the holiday. Even though the job can be tough, he finds happiness in seeing people embark on their journey home.

"Seeing everyone filled with joy as they board the train to go home and celebrate Tết with their families, I can't help but feel good too," said Nguyên.

He said he looks forward to the less busy period after Tết when he can reunite with his family and spend quality time with them. 

Trần Thị Ngọc Phượng is a nurse at a hospital in HCM City. She will work until the end of New Year's Day to look after those who might be rushed to the emergency room during Tết.

The most challenging cases for her are those involved in traffic accidents. As these patients require intensive care, she has to work tirelessly to ensure they receive the help they need.

"While everyone is enjoying the holiday with their families, I'm busy with my job," said Phượng. It makes me feel sad at first, but I get used to it over time."

For Phượng, being a nurse means sacrificing personal celebrations to serve others. Although it can be tough, she understands the importance of her role and finds fulfilment in making a difference in the lives of her patients.

Hoàng Anh Cường has been working as a guard at Thế Tổ Temple in Huế City for nearly 30 years. Watching over the temple during Tết is a regular part of his job.

And this year is no exception as he will be on duty to protect the historical site on New Year's Day.

He felt a bit disappointed at the beginning when he had to work during the holiday, but he soon got used to it because he knew his co-workers also put aside family reunions to ensure monuments were protected during Tết.

"I stay on duty during Tết to ease the workload for my fellow guards," said Phạm Đình Trí Mạnh, a colleague of Cường. — VNS