43 NEEDED
Vietnam is
the 13th most populous country in the world and almost two-thirds of its people
live along the country's three main river basins- Thai Binh, Mekong Delta and
Dong Nai.
Vietnam has
2360 rivers totaling to more than 10 km and it would appear that this should
provide copious supply of water to the nation. Although the quality of upstream
river water is generally good, the downstream sections of major rivers reveal
poor water quality, and most of the lakes and canals in urban areas have become
sewage sinks. The weakness in industrial wastewater management is the main
cause of water pollution in Vietnam. Most of the enterprises do not have any wastewater
treatment system and many industrial zones did not have a central wastewater
treatment plant. Industrial wastewater was directly discharged into canals,
lakes, ponds, and rivers, causing serious pollution of surface water.
It is
reported that only 39% of the rural population has access to safe water and
sanitation. In the Northern region of Vietnam around Hanoi, there is evidence
of arsenic contamination in the drinking water. About 7 million people living
in this area have a severe risk of arsenic poisoning and since elevated levels
of arsenic can cause cancer, neurological and skin problems, this is a serious
issue. Fish kills have been discovered along the beaches of four central
coastal provinces, namely Ha Tinh, Quang Tri, Quang Binh, and Hue. No one dares
to eat the fish. Some who tried have already had to go the hospital. Almost 80%
of the diseases in Vietnam are caused by polluted water.
Vietnam
should investigate these poisonings of the water which has resulted in the
death of marine lives. At present, no
responsibility is taken. Massive marine death continues, people are ill and
ocean damage continues. The government should find other water sources or
improve anti-pollution facilities.
The water
resources management issues in the country could be solved by implementing
policies and programs relating to this. This is a challenge but there should be
an improvement regarding the access to clean water and sanitation for both
urban and rural population, improving public participation and knowledge and
strengthening river basin management.
So please
sign this petition and urge the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment
to investigate and take action against this serious cause!
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