Recent citizen concerns have prompted the Vietnamese government to take action on two significant issues: the safety of National Route 279 and illegal gravel extraction activities impacting local communities.
Citizens of Lào Cai have raised alarms about safety issues along National Route 279, which is the main roadway linking Lào Cai to Hà Giang and provides access to the Nội Bài - Lào Cai expressway. Specifically, sharp turns at Km71, Km73, and Km74 near Yên Sơn commune within Bảo Yên district pose risks for motorists. To address this, residents have petitioned the Ministry of Transport (MOT) to invest in the road's improvement, especially to modernize these dangerous turns for safer transit.
The response from the MOT indicates recognition of these hazards. They revealed plans for road upgrades, stating, "The Ministry of Transport acknowledges the citizens’ proposals and will continue to improve the management and maintenance of national highways.” This is part of efforts aligned with their approvals dating back to October 25, 2012, which originally focused on enhancements for this route.
The update included additional financing, with 21.2 billion VND allocated for repairing 11 locations along Route 279, set to begin during the 2025 maintenance project. These initiatives aim not only to secure safe travel but also to promote the socio-economic development of the Lào Cai region, enhancing its connection to surrounding provinces.
Shifting focus, another pressing issue has surfaced along the Đuống River, particularly through Phù Đổng, Gia Lâm district, where reports of illegal sand and gravel extraction have emerged. These activities have disrupted local life, compelling residents to voice their grievances. Responding to these complaints, on February 20, 2025, Trần Sỹ Thanh, Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee, directed relevant agencies to investigate and address this pressing concern.
The immediate response included the establishment of barriers and containers to halt operations at three specific transfer sites—Khổng Trường Giang, Tất Thắng, and Giang Linh. While operations at the first two sites have ceased, the Giang Linh site reportedly defied these restrictions, continuing its activities under the cover of darkness.
Local authorities have faced challenges managing Giang Linh, as reported by representatives from the Phù Đổng commune. They mentioned, "There have been unauthorized activities continuing at Giang Linh transfer station, even after the barriers were placed.” This has led to concerns about enforcement capabilities. The Department of Natural Resources and Environment has signaled it will engage at higher levels to structure more definitive responses to this situation.
Complicatory factors added challenges, with electric machinery reported to be active at Giang Linh, even though EVN HANOI confirmed, "Electricity to the area has been completely cut off.” This contradiction raises questions about management oversight and the reliability of barriers.
Engaging with citizens and governmental efficiency seems to be at the heart of these recent developments. The government’s track record of addressing road safety aligns with its proactive measures against illegal activities. Local government and communities highlight the importance of citizen feedback, aiming to hold entities accountable and safeguard regional interests.
The dual issues of road safety on National Route 279 and the illegal extraction along the Đuống River encapsulate the broader challenges faced by citizens within Vietnam. By successfully implementing their proposals and ramping up monitoring of illegal activities, authorities will not only restore the trust of the local communities but also promote sustainable development for the region.