Controlling water sources from irrigation "blood vessels
Entering the peak of the dry season, the water source problem in Vinh Long becomes more urgent than ever. Although the salinity intrusion situation has not reached the red alert level like historical drought years, the provincial agricultural sector still sets a goal of "prevention is better than cure". The monitoring of hydrological indicators is carried out in real time, ensuring that all fluctuations, even the smallest ones on the main river branches, are recorded and handled promptly.
Mr. Le Quang Rang - Deputy Director of Vinh Long Department of Agriculture & Environment - said that through the monitoring system, the salinity on the Co Chien and Hau rivers is currently fluctuating at a level from 0.1‰ to more than 5‰. "Although these indicators are still lower than the same period in 2025, we are absolutely not negligent. The salinity boundary can push deep into the fields at any time depending on the water flow from upstream and the intensity of the high tide" - Mr. Rang assessed.
To be proactive in water sources, the province has directed the flexible operation of the irrigation "blood vessel" system. Key culverts playing a key role such as Lang The, Cai Hop on the Co Chien River and Rach Rum, Bong Bot on the Hau River are being regulated smoothly. The culvert opening/closing process is scientifically calculated: Closed tightly when saltwater intrudes and opened to take fresh water when the tide recedes or when the salinity is within the permissible limit. Thanks to this "just right" regulation, the current internal field water level basically meets the irrigation needs for specialty fruit growing areas of the province.
Reinforcing the "defense line" against climate change
Exchanging more deeply about the long-term strategy, Mr. Chau Van Hoa - Vice Chairman of Vinh Long Provincial People's Committee - affirmed to Lao Dong Newspaper reporters that the province is focusing all resources to complete key irrigation projects, especially in border areas with high risk of saltwater intrusion. In the context of unpredictable climate change, infrastructure upgrades are not only a temporary solution but also a strategic step to protect sustainable livelihoods for people.
Real-world survey, provincial leaders highly appreciate the progress of the Bac - Nam Ben Tre irrigation system - a key link in protecting inter-provincial freshwater areas. With 14/15 open culverts completed, this system is ready to create a safe "buffer zone", strengthening freshwater storage for the Vinh Long - Ben Tre border area (before merger). In parallel, the Vam Mon culvert mega-project (60m wide) in Vinh Thanh commune is also being accelerated, combined with synchronous traffic infrastructure.
Mr. Hoa emphasized that, besides infrastructure, the province has prepared emergency scenarios: Operation of field pumping stations, use of supply barges and guidance on water-saving irrigation. The ultimate goal is to ensure domestic water and minimize agricultural damage. With this proactiveness, Vinh Long is one step ahead in the drought and salinity war, turning natural challenges into a driving force to complete sustainable infrastructure.
