In early May 2025, Lao Dong Newspaper reporters were present at Hoa Binh Hydropower Plant (Hoa Binh city), according to the records, the water level above the lake has dropped lower than when the hydropower plant released floodwaters (July, August, September 2024).
According to observations, all the bottom spillways of the hydropower plant are closed, above the low-lying lake area, revealing the foundation of the project and many cliffs along the shore that can be observed with the naked eye.
Mr. Nguyen Van Nam (42 years old, residing in Phuong Lam ward, Hoa Binh city) said: "Compared to the time of flood discharge, the current water level is nearly 30 meters lower. Every dry season, the water level drops, because there is no rain and hydropower plants still have to operate.
According to Mr. Nam, the water level has dropped sharply, revealing many cliffs and stone foundations above the hydroelectric reservoir. This is also a rare scene that attracts many tourists when visiting Hoa Binh Hydropower Plant.
In addition, the water level of Hoa Binh Hydropower Reservoir has continuously decreased, the current reservoir bed has narrowed by 200 - 300m compared to before, causing fish cage farmers to face difficulties and struggles.
Mr. Ly Quang Hoang (Vay Nua commune, Da Bac district) - shared: "The water level is much lower than every year. If they continue to lower, the cage fish may die en masse. We hope that the authorities will intervene to support and provide technical guidance to reduce risks".
According to Mr. Xa Van Si - Chairman of the People's Committee of vay Nua commune, the water level on the Hoa Binh Hydropower Reservoir has decreased significantly. The commune government has advised people to move fish cages to deeper water areas, or where streams flow in to improve the water environment.
According to the recommendation of the livestock industry in Hoa Binh province, people should proactively prune fish when they are of good product size, and should not fish or release fish on extremely hot days.
At the same time, you should move the cages to water areas 2.5 - 3 m deep, placing them 1.5 - 2 m from the bottom to limit local oxygen shortages. Closely monitor fish health, collect leftover feed, and cover cages with a light-red net. On hot days, reduce the amount of food by 50 - 70% or temporarily stop feeding the fish. Prioritize the use of nutritious foods, combined with vitamin C, minerals and biological products to increase resistance.
According to an update from Vietnam Electricity Group, on May 25: The current water level of Hoa Binh Lake is only 88.71m, up to 28.29m lower than the normal rising water level (117m), but 8.71m higher than the dead water level. This water level can still generate electricity, but the ability to store water is very limited.
