Many communes in Lai Chau isolated by recent floods

According to statistics released by Phong Tho district authorities, the recent floods have caused serious human and property losses to Lai Chau province. Hundreds of landslides and flashfloods occurred on routes from Khong Lao to eight border communes with more than 100,000cu.m of mud and rock, isolating many hamlets in the locality.

Relevant forces have been mobilized to coordinate with businesses and locals to clear mud and debris.

Tran Van Que, chairman of Phong Tho district People’s Committee, said it would take 7-10 days to clear the routes due to continuous rains and a huge volume of mud and rock.

Meanwhile prolonged torrential rains in recent days have resulted in floods and landslides in some areas in northern Lao Cai province. Around 82 households, most of them from Bac Ha district, have been submerged while 15 others have to be evacuated. Floods and landslides also damaged vast areas of rice and subsidiary crops, livestock and water sources. Initial losses are estimated at about VND2.6 billion.

It is forecast that the province would be hit by further rains and floods in the coming time.