Risky task of salvaging firewood from floodwaters on the Lam River.
After the floods, logs and branches of all sizes flow down the Lam River from upstream. This sight has led many people in the downstream areas of Nghe An province to risk their lives collecting firewood and catching fish in the river, despite warnings of danger. Meanwhile, local authorities have repeatedly issued warnings and requests to stop collecting firewood during the rainy season to ensure the safety of people's lives and property.
In recent days, water released from upstream hydroelectric dams has caused the water level of the Lam River to rise. The strong current carries countless floating objects such as broken trees, rotten wood, and even animal carcasses. Many people in riverside communes such as Yen Xuan, Anh Son... (formerly Anh Son district), Dai Dong, Xuan Lam, Bich Hao (formerly Thanh Chuong district), Van An, Thien Nhan (formerly Nam Dan district)... are taking advantage of the situation by bringing small boats and canoes out into the middle of the river to collect wood and catch fish.
Some people even brought chainsaws to the water's edge to cut up floating logs, bundle them up, and transport them home. These actions took place even as local authorities were repeatedly issuing warnings, urging people to absolutely refrain from collecting firewood during the rainy season.
In reality, after floods, major rivers like the Lam River often experience numerous whirlpools, complex currents, and countless unpredictable dangers. Despite this, many people remain complacent, not carrying life jackets or protective equipment when going out to collect firewood or fish in the river. According to local authorities, some residents wade far from the shore, trying to reach large pieces of driftwood floating in the middle of the river. In the event of a sudden rise in water levels and flash floods, it would be very difficult for people to escape in time.
According to Mr. Hoang Dinh My, Chairman of the People's Committee of Yen Xuan commune, the local authorities have repeatedly issued warnings and disseminated information through the public address system and social media, while also organizing patrol and control forces. However, the fact that some people still disregard the warnings and risk their lives going to the river to collect firewood is causing great concern to the authorities.
Upon discovering the aforementioned situation, the commune established inspection teams, organized monitoring at critical points, and strengthened coordination between the police, militia, and mass organizations to promptly remind and handle cases of deliberate violations.
According to Mr. My, after floodwaters recede, they leave behind many underwater whirlpools and strong currents, making it easy for firewood to get caught in submerged tree roots, cables, etc., which can easily cause boats to capsize and lead to drownings. Besides the risk of tragic accidents, going out to the river to collect firewood also complicates disaster control efforts and poses additional risks for rescue forces.
According to our research, many families consider collecting firewood from floodwaters as a way to utilize "gifts from nature" after the floods. Some say that just one trip to the river can bring back several large bundles of firewood, which they can use for cooking, saving on living expenses, or selling for money. However, immediate benefits cannot be exchanged for lives. In unpredictable weather conditions, a sudden flood or strong current is enough to sweep away both people and vehicles.
Mr. Nguyen Trong Huan, a resident living along the Lam River in Xuan Lam commune, said: "During the flood season, we take advantage of the opportunity to go to the river to collect firewood to stockpile for the whole year. The firewood is usually bamboo, reeds, and dry trees that float down from upstream, sometimes even large logs. In just one morning, we can collect enough firewood to fill an ox cart. But after being warned by the authorities, we stopped and no longer risk collecting firewood during the flood."
For many years, almost every year after floods, there have been tragic accidents caused by people collecting firewood from flooded areas or fishing in ponds, lakes, rivers, and streams. Each reckless and careless action can have serious consequences, affecting not only the individuals involved but also hindering rescue and relief efforts by authorities.
Local authorities have been making efforts through various measures to ensure the safety of the people. But for those efforts to be truly effective, it is essential that each citizen proactively changes their habits and responds to natural disasters in a cautious and responsible manner.
Disaster prevention and control experts advise people to strictly adhere to safety guidelines during the rainy season and floods. Specifically, do not collect firewood, catch fish, or play or swim in floodwaters. Absolutely do not travel or wade through areas with deep flooding and strong currents, and do not approach areas with warning signs. In particular, do not allow children to play near rivers, streams, canals, or dangerous drainage areas. Proactive prevention and raising community awareness are key factors in minimizing damage to people and property during the rainy season and storms.
