Heartwarming moments after the storm: Dozens of mechanics provide free car repair services to people in Nghe An.

Tan Ky commune is one of the localities most severely affected by the aftermath of Typhoon No. 10. According to statistics from the commune's Fatherland Front Committee, the recent flooding affected 2,102 households, and nearly 10,000 people from 20 out of 25 hamlets had to be urgently evacuated and relocated.

On October 4th, as the floodwaters receded, the scene was one of muddy, inundated roads and countless damaged properties, with motorbikes being among the most severely affected. Life was already difficult for the people, and the floods have only added to their hardships, as the lack of transportation has hampered recovery efforts.

In response to this situation, more than 30 motorbike repairmen in the former Tan Ky district voluntarily formed a support team to provide free motorbike repairs for the people. This activity started on October 4th and will continue for four days at four locations. On the first day, the mechanics will repair motorbikes at Roi intersection, Dien Nam hamlet, Tan Ky commune, and then move to heavily damaged areas such as Nghia Hanh, Tan An, etc.

According to statistics, on October 4th, more than 100 motorbikes were brought to the repair shop by local residents, mainly in Tan Ky commune. Many households brought 3-4 flooded motorbikes at a time, hoping to have them repaired so they could have a means of transportation again soon. Due to the large volume of work, the repair team prioritized fixing lightly damaged motorbikes so they could start and move, while those with more serious damage would be dealt with later.

Mr. Tran Tien, a mechanic who provides free vehicle repair services to the people, shared: “After the flood, vehicles are submerged in mud and water, making it easy for the entire engine and electrical system to be damaged. We try to handle the basic repairs, changing the oil, air filter, spark plugs, and cleaning the engine so that the vehicles can operate again. The highest goal is for people to have means of transportation after the flood. For vehicles with severe damage, we have to deal with them later because it takes a lot of time.”

It is known that, in collaboration with the group of mechanics, local motorcycle and electric vehicle dealers such as Vinh Thu, Hai Hien, Hong Ngan, etc., have provided spare parts, lubricants, spark plugs, and air filters completely free of charge for the repair work. For higher-cost parts, they are also willing to provide partial support to help the people overcome their difficulties as soon as possible.

Repairing a vehicle after flooding is considered a complex task, requiring technical skill and meticulous attention to detail. Vehicles submerged in water for extended periods are often covered in mud, and water can leak into the engine, battery, and carburetor system. If not handled properly, many vehicles may rust, suffer engine damage, or experience hydrolock during startup. Therefore, mechanics must proceed step-by-step: removing spark plugs, draining oil, pumping water from the cylinders, checking the electrical system, changing the oil, and drying parts before reassembly.

Due to the large workload, the volunteer team worked continuously from morning to night, each person responsible for a specific task. The temporary repair area was neatly arranged, ensuring safety and hygiene. The team took care of their own meals and daily living expenses, in addition to receiving support from charitable groups who provided lunch and drinks.

The free vehicle repair assistance program in Tan Ky commune not only helps people quickly restore their means of transportation but also demonstrates the solidarity and mutual support of the local community after the natural disaster. This is a practical, timely approach that meets the actual needs of people in the severely affected area.