Lam Dong authorities have ordered businesses at the Vinh Tan Power Center to stop coal loading during strong wind gusts and whirlwinds to prevent coal dust and ash from spreading into residential areas.
On October 22, the Lam Dong Department of Agriculture and Environment said it had asked businesses at the Vinh Tan Power Center and Vinh Tan International Port in Vinh Hao Commune to urgently take environmental protection measures and prevent coal dust and ash from spreading into residential areas.
According to the department, thermal power plants have invested in waste treatment systems, enclosed roofs over coal storage areas and other environmental protection measures in recent years. However, during the northeast monsoon season, from November to April of the following year, the area often experiences strong wind gusts and whirlwinds, increasing the risk of coal dust and ash spreading.
A document from the Vinh Hao Commune People's Committee, No. 3303/UBND-KT dated October 14, said black dust was still spreading into the residential area of Vinh Tan Village. The situation affects residents' lives and could complicate public order.
The department therefore ordered businesses to strengthen controls over dust sources at the coal loading port, coal storage areas, conveyors, transfer towers, ash yards and ash silos. Imported coal and stored raw materials must remain under enclosed roofs so that coal does not spill outside.
The plants must increase watering frequency and keep misting systems and water cannons for dust suppression operating continuously. In particular, coal loading and coal-pile breaking must stop immediately when strong wind gusts or whirlwinds occur.
Vinh Tan 4 Thermal Power Plant was separately ordered to operate the misting system on the western wind barrier continuously, around the clock, and to regularly inspect and replace damaged nozzles to ensure effective dust control.
For ash transport, businesses must use specialized trucks, fully cover the truck beds, stay within the permitted load and clean the vehicles before they leave the plant or ash yard. They must also regularly sweep and water transport roads to prevent ash from falling and dust from spreading, especially on National Highway 1.
The department also ordered the plants to maintain automatic wastewater and emissions monitoring systems, transmit data reliably for round-the-clock oversight by authorities and work with the Vinh Hao Commune administration to investigate the causes of residents' complaints.
Sources: Dân Trí
