As reported by Lao Dong Newspaper, during its operation, the turbid water from Na Deo sandbank, Thanh Thinh commune (Cho Moi, Bac Kan) flows directly into the Cau River, potentially causing environmental pollution and affecting the lives of residents in the riverside area as well as downstream areas.
According to Thanh Thinh Commune People's Committee, after receiving the feedback, the locality coordinated with the competent authorities to inspect and make a record for the above sand mine.
The initial cause is believed to be the settling tank damaged after the storm, causing wastewater to overflow into the environment. The mining unit has been requested to fix the problem.
However, according to the reporter's records in early April 2025, the phenomenon of discharging wastewater from the production area of Na Deo sand mine into Cau river continues.
Inside the sandbank area, machinery and equipment are operating vigorously. The exploitation site has many ditches, revealing eroded and uneven patches of land.
From these ditches, the turbid golden water from the production area continues to squeeze through the vacant land, then flows straight into the Cau River, near the Na Deo suspension bridge.
Having a house in the downstream area of Cau River, Mr. Hoang Van Tam (Cho Moi) said that the water from the sandbank flowing into the river has been going on for a long time but has not been completely treated.
"Previously, the river water in this section was very shallow, but recently it has often been cloudy. People also have opinions but they are not there. If this continues, it will not only affect the ecosystem but also affect the lives of people in the surrounding area," Mr. Thang added.
Local people hope that the authorities will soon have a plan and measures to handle the situation thoroughly, ensuring the environment and landscape of the area.
On April 10, speaking with a reporter from Lao Dong Newspaper, Mr. Ly Van Que - Vice Chairman of Thanh Thinh Commune People's Committee (Cho Moi) - said that the mining unit is still in the process of repairing the settling tank.
The local government has requested the unit to complete before continuing operations to ensure the environment.
According to the commune leader, the locality is facing many difficulties in management due to limited authority, while business owners are rarely present at the mine.
In the coming time, the locality said it will continue to monitor and propose handling if violations are detected.
Some recorded images:
The sand and gravel mining project in Na Deo village was approved for investment by the People's Committee of Bac Kan province in 2017, implemented by Phuc Loc Company Limited. In April 2023, the project was transferred to Anh Minh Bac Joint Stock Company.
After adjustment, the total investment capital is over 2.9 billion VND, exploiting 7,000m3 of sand and gravel/year, adding an artificial sand production line of 2,140m3/year, with an extension period of 2 years and 2 months.
