VietNamNet Bridge – Leaks on the walls of Thuy Yen reservoir in the central province of Thua Thien-Hue are worrying locals who live nearby.

Water flowing out of leaks in the reservoir wall. — Photo danviet.vn

Residents of the province’s Loc Thuy Commune said they spotted water leaks at the foot of reservoir and have reported the issue to commune authorities.

They claim there are at least two leaks and that a lot of the water is flowing out into a hole near the reservoir. “The water is flowing out strongly from one spot. We are worried about the risk to our lives and properties,” said Nguyen Van Dung, a local.

Commune chairman Tran Van Huu confirmed that there are leaks and said the authorities have reported the issue to concerned agencies and requested for an urgent inspection. A field inspection was started on Thursday, Huu added.

However, an official in the reservoir management unit said the “leaks are under control”, and that they are included in the reservoir’s technical design.

Meanwhile, in Quang Trị Province, irrigation authorities have announced that 48 reservoirs in the province need urgent repairs before the monsoon.

The local Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said they have conducted site visits and drawn up a VNĐ1.2 trillion (US$53 million) repair plan. The strong volume of water and deterioration over time have affected the reservoir walls, the department said.

The province has a total of 131 reservoirs for irrigating 25,000ha of agricultural cultivation.

VNS