Investigation launched into 10 chemical barrels found on Ho Chi Minh City hill

Vung Tau was a city of the former Ba Ria–Vung Tau Province but is now a ward of Ho Chi Minh City following a recent major administrative restructuring in which Vietnam’s total number of provinces and cities was reduced to 34 from 63 and local administrations were divided into provinces/cities and wards/communes.

Bui Van Hy, chairman of the People’s Committee of Vung Tau Ward, on Monday issued an urgent official document directing the economics, infrastructure, and urban development divisions to coordinate with police to verify reports of 10 chemical barrels on Con Heo Hill.

They are tasked with identifying the purpose and parties responsible for placing these chemical barrels on the hill, and proposing measures in accordance with regulations to address any violations by any organization or individual.

They will then report the results of the investigation and proposals to the ward administration.

During a heavy rain on Sunday afternoon, residents in Alley 228 on Phan Chu Trinh Street leading up to Con Heo Hill noticed white foam appearing in the rainwater flowing down from the hilltop.

When the rain eased, the foam accumulated into thick patches. 

People walking through the foamy water experienced burning sensations on their feet.

Following the flow of the water, residents discovered 10 large, square chemical barrels at the hilltop with lids open and valves released.

The rainwater entered the barrels and flowed out into the environment, causing the formation of the white foam.