Hanoi, neighboring provinces warned of severe air pollution

These localities are expected to face an upcoming spell of severe pollution between late November and early December.

According to national environmental monitoring data and meteorological forecasts, the northern region is likely to experience a combination of adverse weather patterns in the coming 10 days, including temperature inversions, weak winds, and dense fog.

These conditions significantly limit the dispersion of airborne pollutants, leading to the accumulation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5).

Pollution levels could push the Air Quality Index beyond 150, posing risks to economic activities, social life, and public health.

To mitigate the impact, the ministry has instructed local authorities to intensify street cleaning efforts and implement dust-reduction measures.

Construction activities, transport operations, and other major sources of dust must be strictly monitored.

It is vital to tighten control over trash burning at factories and craft villages.

The ministry asked the provincial and municipal administrations to enhance public health advisories and use technology to monitor and address violations more effectively.

They were also required to provide weekly reports on their progress.

National strategy targets cleaner air, emissions control

In a broader move to address long-term environmental challenges, the Vietnamese prime minister has approved a national action plan for tackling air pollution and improving air quality management for the 2026-30 period, with a vision toward 2045.

The plan sets clear targets for reducing pollution in major economic hubs, with a particular focus on Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and surrounding provinces.

By 2030, all major emission sources, especially in high-risk industries such as cement production, thermal power generation, steelmaking and boiler operations, must be closely managed, monitored, and placed on a roadmap for emission reduction.

Besides, the strategy mandates that 100 percent of road vehicles, including cars and motorbikes, comply with national emission standards under a phased regulatory framework.