Vietnam landfill breach floods farmland with waste

The incident occurred around 8:00 am in Sa Loong Commune, part of old Ngoc Hoi District in Kon Tum Province before Kon Tum was merged into Quang Ngai Province on July 1.

Part of the embankment at a solid waste treatment facility collapsed following heavy rain, according to commune chairman Xieng Thanh Phu.

At least 15 households have been affected, Phu said.

The facility is managed by the Bo Y Commune Public Services Management Board.

It was originally developed by the former Ngoc Hoi District authority with an investment of VND49.3 billion (US$1.9 million).

Local authorities have begun cleanup efforts and are assessing environmental damage.

Residents reported a strong odor in the area.

Phu said rainwater had built up inside the landfill, increasing pressure on the structure.