HCMC – The Mekong Delta province of Dong Thap has raised its forest fire warning to the highest level, putting more than 7,740 hectares of forest, including Tram Chim National Park, at extreme risk amid prolonged heat.
The provincial Forest Protection Department said seven communes, namely Tan Ho Co, Tam Nong, Phong My, Phuong Thinh, Tan Phuoc 2, Tan Phuoc 3, and Tan Hoa, are now under Level V alert, indicating extremely dangerous conditions. Meanwhile, An Hoa, Tram Chim, My Qui, Tan Dien, and Go Cong Dong are classified at Level IV, or dangerous.
Prolonged hot weather has dried out forest vegetation and lowered water levels in canals, raising the likelihood of large and fast-spreading fires, particularly in special-use and protection forests.
Authorities have instructed local administrations and forest owners to strictly implement the “four on-the-spot” principle, while maintaining round-the-clock patrols, including during weekends and public holidays, to respond swiftly to any incidents.
To safeguard forest areas, provincial authorities have also called for tighter control over access to high-risk zones. Ranger units have been tasked with maintaining firefighting equipment and stepping up public awareness campaigns, urging residents living near forests to carefully manage the use of fire in daily activities and farming to prevent outbreaks.
