On June 12, 2025, the Bắc Kạn Provincial People's Committee officially announced the cessation of search efforts for a suspected missing person at a large sinkhole, ominously dubbed the "death pit," located in Hiệp Lực village, Kim Lư commune, Na Rì district. This decision comes after more than two weeks of intensive but ultimately fruitless rescue operations, underscoring the formidable challenges posed by the site's treacherous terrain and ongoing geological instability.
The incident dates back to the evening of May 26, 2025, when a motorcyclist, later identified as Nguyễn Duy Ph, born in 1989 and residing in Kim Hỷ commune, Na Rì district, reportedly crashed through a barrier on National Highway 3B and fell into the deep sinkhole. Authorities swiftly mobilized specialized rescue teams equipped with advanced technology, including high-capacity pumps designed to drain water from the pit, in hopes of locating the missing individual. However, the complex geology of the sinkhole—with continual mudslides and soil collapses—combined with rising water levels, severely hampered these efforts.
Throughout the search, the Na Rì District People's Committee provided detailed reports highlighting the extreme difficulties faced by rescue teams. The terrain's complexity and the persistent subsidence rendered the area perilous, not only hindering progress but also endangering the safety of the search personnel. Representatives from the Provincial Police and the Provincial Military Command also contributed updates on their coordinated efforts, emphasizing the commitment and professionalism demonstrated during the operation.
Vice Chairman of the Bắc Kạn Provincial People's Committee, Nông Quang Nhất, publicly acknowledged and praised the dedication and sense of responsibility exhibited by all involved in the rescue mission. Despite deploying the most modern equipment available and adopting numerous strategies, the search failed to yield any definitive results, with the victim's whereabouts remaining unknown. The worsening condition of the sinkhole further complicated matters, escalating the risk to rescuers and necessitating a reassessment of the operation.
Consequently, the Provincial People's Committee convened a meeting to consider the proposal put forth by the Na Rì District People's Committee to halt search and rescue activities. After thorough deliberation and consideration of the reports, the committee agreed with the recommendation to suspend the search. This difficult but necessary decision prioritizes the safety of rescue teams and acknowledges the limitations imposed by the natural hazards present at the site.
In response, the Provincial People's Committee issued a series of directives aimed at managing the aftermath and preventing further incidents. Relevant departments and local authorities were instructed to continue verifying information related to the suspected missing individual, ensuring that any new leads are thoroughly investigated. Moreover, they were tasked with providing emotional support and reassurance to the victim's family, while strongly discouraging relatives from entering the dangerous area, thereby mitigating additional risks.
Monitoring and warning systems have been established across the affected zones in Kim Lư commune to alert the public to the ongoing dangers. Strict prohibitions are in place to prevent unauthorized access to the sinkhole sites, recognizing the potential for further collapses. Simultaneously, the collection and removal of rescue equipment and vehicles are underway, coordinated with traffic management authorities to maintain safe traffic flow and prevent accidents on National Highway 3B.
Looking beyond immediate concerns, the Provincial People's Committee has commissioned specialized agencies to collaborate with the Institute of Geological Sciences and Minerals and other experts. Their mission is to investigate the underlying causes of the sinkhole formation and ongoing subsidence. The goal is to develop effective, economically viable solutions that will stabilize the land, thereby safeguarding the livelihoods and safety of local residents.
In parallel, the Department of Construction has been tasked with coordinating efforts alongside Na Rì district and relevant units to promptly address the sinkhole at kilometer 80+050 on National Highway 3B. This intervention aims to restore and ensure safe transportation routes, critical for the region's connectivity and economic activity.
The emergence of multiple sinkholes in the Hiệp Lực village area has alarmed residents and authorities alike, highlighting the volatile geological conditions in this part of Bắc Kạn province. The incident involving Nguyễn Duy Ph tragically exemplifies the unpredictable and hazardous nature of these natural phenomena.
While the suspension of the search marks a somber moment for the community, it reflects a pragmatic approach to a complex and dangerous situation. The authorities remain committed to supporting the affected family, safeguarding public safety, and pursuing long-term solutions to prevent similar tragedies. As the investigation into the causes of the subsidence continues, residents and officials alike hope for stability and reassurance in a region marked by uncertainty.
