Vietnam’s Dak Lak authorities to assess repairs after lighting system failure at popular tower

Nguyen Cong Thanh, chairman of Tuy Hoa Ward in Dak Lak Province, said on Friday that the provincial administration has directed the ward to inspect the site, assess the extent of the damage, and propose repairs. 

A report must be submitted by September 15.

Tuy Hoa Ward was part of Phu Yen Province, which was merged into Dak Lak Province following an administrative reorganization on July 1.

Visitors have expressed disappointment that the tower, known for its striking night-time lighting, no longer glows in color as intended. 

"I saw review videos on TikTok showing the tower changing colors at night, but today it's dark. It's a pity," said Le Thu Hoai, a tourist from Ho Chi Minh City.

Local media reported that the tower plaza shows cracks and peeling stone, while several light fixtures remain unlit due to the ongoing electrical failure.

The project was constructed by the eastern region investment and construction management board of Dak Lak Province, which was previously the investment and construction management board of Phu Yen Province.

Completed and handed over to local authorities in September 2022, the developer has stated that lighting failures began more than seven months ago and occurred after the warranty period had expired.

The municipal public utilities authority is responsible for operating the lighting system, but it does not have the mandate to carry out electrical repairs, officials said.

Designed as a cultural symbol inspired by the legendary Ganh Da Dia, also known as the Reef of Plates, the twin stone towers are the only structure in Southeast Asia to win the 2023 Asian Urban Landscape Award and were named the 2023 World's Leading City Monument by the World Travel Awards.