HCMC – The Mekong Delta city of Can Tho might face severe saltwater intrusion during the 2026 dry season, driven by tidal influences from the East Sea across major waterways, with the peak expected to occur later this month, according to the Can Tho City Hydrometeorological Station.
On the Hau River, a salinity level of four parts per thousand (ppt – a standard unit for measuring water salinity) may reach 45 to 55 kilometers inland, while a two-ppt level could penetrate as deep as 62 to 65 kilometers. This situation poses a direct threat to rice and fruit production in various parts, including Tran De, Lich Hoi Thuong, Long Phu, Dai Ngai, Ke Sach and Cu Lao Dung. Similarly, at Quan Lo – Phung Hiep canal, salinity levels of 1.5 to 2.5 ppt are projected to push deep into Mang Ca canal and Phung Hiep hydrological station.
To mitigate the impact on local livelihoods, Can Tho City’s Department of Agriculture and Environment has issued directives for synchronized drought and salinity response measures. For rice and vegetable crops, farmers in rain-fed areas such as My Xuyen and Tran De are urged not to sow late winter-spring crops unless a stable irrigation source is guaranteed.
The authorities recommend adopting water-saving techniques, such as alternate wetting and drying, and switching to short-term, salt-tolerant varieties or drought-resistant upland crops. Farmers are also advised to test water salinity before irrigation and use mulch or straw to retain soil moisture while increasing organic fertilizers to boost crop resistance.
Regarding fruit trees, which are highly sensitive to salinity, the department emphasizes the need to reinforce embankments and strictly monitor water quality. Irrigation should be avoided if salinity exceeds one ppt for general crops or 0.5 ppt for sensitive varieties like durian, rambutan and mangosteen. During peak intrusion periods, farmers should provide only minimum irrigation to maintain moisture and implement pruning to reduce transpiration.
Local authorities are also accelerating the maintenance of irrigation works and the operation of sluice gates to store freshwater. To ensure a proactive response, the department has requested weekly updates on the salinity situation from local agencies to effectively direct mitigation efforts across the city.
