As Lao Dong reported, at the end of March 2025, 7 death holes appeared in Kim Lu commune (Na Ri, Bac Kan). The subsidence points tend to widen, causing people to worry.
On May 26, a rare incident occurred when a young man suddenly jumped his motorbike into a sinkhole. The authorities must synchronously deploy search and rescue measures.
According to the assessment of the Institute of Geological Sciences and Mineral Resources, the subsidence phenomenon in Bac Kan occurs in the area of primary sedimentary rock distribution interspersed with limestone or dolomite. This type of rock is carbonated, easily dissolved in natural conditions.
Above the holes are thick layers of thick material including sand, mixed sand, and lightning, with poor durability, loose state, and 3 - 5m thick. Initially, it was just small cracks, but gradually large holes were formed in the ground.
According to the reporter, after 6 days of the victim's disappearance, the authorities were still present at the scene to conduct the search. Measures to use cameras to detect and drain water are implemented synchronously. However, erratic weather and heavy rain caused the water level in the death hole to rise, making search and rescue difficult.
In Tuyen Quang, subsidence holes were also recorded in Lam Binh and Son Duong districts. In Phuc Son commune (Lam Binh district), the sinkhole was discovered on May 20, near provincial road DT188. The sinkhole is about 1m wide, the depth of the hole is not yet determined.
At the end of May, Tan Tien hamlet (Tan Thanh commune, Son Duong) discovered a sinkhole more than 2m wide, about 6m deep, close to National Highway 2C.
Initial assessment by the authorities, the phenomenon of subsidence holes may be due to complex geological factors in the area. Especially underground erosion of water networks or the activity of breaking the structure of soil and rock after a long period of rain.
Uncontrolled well drilling and groundwater exploitation activities are also considered factors contributing to geological instability.
On June 1, speaking with Lao Dong reporter, Mr. Phung Ngoc Vinh - Chairman of Tan Thanh Commune People's Committee said that after discovering the sinkhole, the locality had protected the scene, set up barriers and reported to competent authorities.
"According to the plan, on June 2, the road management unit will level the sinkhole to ensure safety. The hole will remain the same size and will not be expanded further," the leader informed.
The appearance of sinkholes has also occurred in Dinh Hoa district (Thai Nguyen). After the historic flood in September 2024, the amount of water pouring in from Nam Mountain caused the Cho Chu River to rise. In the Pai hamlet area, Phuong Tien commune, nearly 10 sinkholes appeared, with an area of 3-10 m2; depth of 3-5 m.
The sinkholes are located near residential areas and cultivated land, causing people to feel insecure and worried.
According to Mr. Hoang Van Anh - Chairman of Phuong Tien Commune People's Committee, up to now, the sinkholes have been leveled. The locality is continuing to monitor, especially during this rainy season, if there are unusual signs, there will be measures to ensure safety.
