Hoa Binh Hydropower Plant is operating bottom discharge to regulate reservoir water during the flood season. However, life on the Da River reservoir still seems peaceful.
In particular, boats are busier as many visitors come to explore the scenery of what is considered Ha Long Bay on this shore.

On the morning of July 16, at Bich Ha Port, Tan Hoa Ward, tourism activities on the lake took place vibrantly. Dozens of boats are still anchored in short distance, ready to take visitors to the lake's tourist attractions.

Ms. Huong, owner of Bao Huong tourist boat, shared that last month, the lake's water level dropped very low, forcing the boat to anchor a few dozen meters from the wharf. welcoming guests is difficult, and destinations are also limited.
"When the water is low, I can only carry passengers to the Thac Bo temple, but cannot go far to Son La. Having difficulty moving and having many customers, it greatly affects my income, said Ms. Huong.

Another boat owner, Mr. Nguyen Van Trang (55 years old), informed: "Hoa Binh Hydropower Plant has a time to release the bottom every year, we are used to living here.
The important thing is to follow the discharge schedule to know when the water rises and falls. In the past few days, the water has risen steadily, there are no big waves, and customers are still taking the train normally".

In the port area, Ms. Hau, 73 years old, living in Tieu Khu hamlet, said she has been in the lake area since 1991, earning a living by selling snacks to tourists. "I only sell sugarcane, peanuts, and black tea. When the water is low and there are few customers, I stay at home. Now there are more customers, I go out to sell, both to earn more income and to enjoy my old age".
downstream, where the white water poured down from the bottom spillway into the Da River, many people came to watch, film clips, and take photos to post on social networks. Some households selling soft drinks and fast food around the foot of the dam are also having more goods than usual.

Mr. Nguyen Van Hanh, who lives in Hoa Binh ward, said that every time the hydropower plant releases floodwaters, he goes out to see them. "The water from above is pouring down and looking majestic. This scene is not always there.

On the afternoon of July 15, Hoa Binh Hydropower Plant continued to open another bottom spillway to proactively regulate water, raising the total number of operating spillways to two. The opening was carried out according to the telegram of the Minister of Agriculture and Environment.
Talking to Lao Dong Newspaper, Mr. Pham Van Vuong, Director of Hoa Binh Hydropower Company, said: By 2:00 p.m. on July 15, the lake water level reached 105.76 meters, while the dead water level was 80 meters.
The water flow to the lake is 3,939 m3/s, the total discharge is 3,932 m3/s. Flood discharge is closely monitored, ensuring safety for downstream areas as well as activities on the lake.