Land subsidence causes damage in Nghe An

Authorities in the central province of Nghe An's Quy Hop District are investigating widespread subsidence which has caused substantial damage to homes and crops.

A woman shows cracks on the floor of her house

According to a report from Chau Hong Communal People's Committee, subsidence started in January 2020, causing damage to local houses and other constructions as well as rice fields.

"So far 114 houses in the area have seen cracks on their walls and grounds," the report said. "Some 300 wells and many rivers and springs have run dry. We’ve never seen this problem before, which is suspected to be the result of mining activities in the area."

Local authorities have put up many warning boards in affected areas.

The Chau Hong Commune People's Committee has also invited the North Central Geological Division to come and inspect the subsided areas

It is reported that some 11 mining companies have been operating in the area since 2000. They extract stone and ore underground using modern drilling machinery.

Chairman of Quy Hop District People's Committee, Nguyen Dinh Tung said that they were working closely with the North Central Geological Division to soon find out the cause of land subsidence and have measures to ensure safety for local people.