On October 12, Quang Binh authorities evacuated 157 households, totaling around 750 residents and tourists in Phong Nha town (Bo Trach district), to conduct a controlled demolition of a large, cracked boulder perched precariously on the mountainside.

The boulder, which weighed over 300 tons, had developed a significant crack due to heavy rains, flooding, and temperature fluctuations since the end of September 2024. This large crack appeared on the mountainside near Xuan Tien neighborhood, creating a high risk of a landslide.

The massive boulder, hanging on the side of the mountain, was at risk of falling at any moment, threatening the lives and properties of local residents.

The cracked boulder was located 17 meters from a tax office, 50 meters above ground level, 30 meters from the Phong Nha Tourism Center's dormitory, and 50 meters from Provincial Road 562.

The crack was about 50 centimeters wide and 100 meters long. If the boulder had fallen, it would have posed a direct threat to eight households, various offices, and units in the area, as well as impacting traffic and tourism along Provincial Road 562.

After detecting the landslide risk and the dangerous boulder, the Quang Binh Provincial People's Committee declared an emergency due to the landslide hazard. They immediately instructed local authorities and the military to address the issue to ensure public safety.

After studying the terrain and geology, planning, and assessing the situation, the Quang Binh Provincial Military Command coordinated with Bo Trach district authorities to organize forces, conduct surveys, and implement a controlled demolition of the cracked boulder, ensuring absolute safety for residents and state agencies in the area.

By 1pm on the same day, the military engineering team successfully demolished the boulder.

Following the controlled explosion, authorities inspected the site. Officers and soldiers from the Quang Binh Provincial Military Command, in collaboration with Bo Trach district officials and local agencies, quickly cleaned up the area and restored normal activities for residents and tourists.

Hai Sam