In recent days, the water level of Hoa Binh Lake has continued to drop sharply, revealing bare rock fields and old streaks of water imprinted at the foot of the hydropower plant. While some cage fish farming households are concerned about lack of oxygen and heat stroke due to heat, many have proactively moved cages and adjusted farming techniques to minimize risks.
Recorded by Lao Dong Newspaper reporters on June 13 at the Hoa Binh Hydropower project area (Hoa Binh City), the reservoir bed has narrowed, the water level is low, all bottom spillways have been closed. The cliffs, stone banks and foot of the lake are clearly visible, leaving behind strands of rock rising in the middle of the lake to create a unique landscape but also make people worried.
Mr. Bui Duc Lam (Thinh Lang ward, Hoa Binh city) said: "The current water level is much lower than the same period last year. People are used to the water receding in the dry season, but this year it recedes quickly and deeply, causing many cage fish farming households to be urgently evacuated to ensure safety."
In Hien Luong commune (Da Bac district), Mr. Quach Van Hung - a household with more than 10 years of experience in fish farming here - shared: "If the situation continues, the fish will easily experience heat stroke and lack oxygen, especially on hot days. Some households have had to prune fish early to reduce density and reduce risks."
Faced with unfavorable developments, the Hien Luong commune government has recommended that households move cages to deep water areas where there is a flow, and at the same time coordinate with the agricultural sector to guide appropriate farming techniques such as hanging cages 1.5 - 2m from the bottom, reducing food intake on hot days, supplementing vitamins and biological products to help fish increase resistance.
Speaking to reporters, Mr. Pham Van Vuong - Director of Hoa Binh Hydropower Company - said: "The current lake water level is about 85m, lower than the same period last year but is still within the permitted limit, not affecting power generation. This is the water level included in the general operating plan of the national power system in 2025 and is in accordance with the approved operating process.
According to Mr. Vuong, maintaining low water levels also aims to create flood prevention capacity before the rainy season. At the same time, the unit is demolishing the surrounding dike under the Hoa Binh Hydropower Expansion Project, expected to be completed on June 15. In the context of severe heat, increased demand for electricity, the plant also increased power generation, contributing to the water level continuing to decrease.
In the Ba Cap Port area, despite the low water level, waterway transportation activities are still taking place stably. Ship owners have proactively adjusted their routes to avoid open-air rock fields, ensuring safety during the transportation of goods and passengers.
Currently, the authorities of Hoa Binh province are closely monitoring the developments of lake water levels, promptly making recommendations and providing technical support for aquaculture people. At the same time, the regulation of electricity production is also considered appropriately during the changing seasons and prolonged droughts.
