Bùi Thanh Giang (standing), deputy general director of SAWACO, speaks at a recent seminar on supplying clean water for HCM City amid climate change. Photo courtesy of SAWACO

HCM CITY — State-owned Saigon Water Corporation (SAWACO), the largest tap water supplier in HCM City, is taking bold measures to ensure a ‘stable and clean water supply’ in the face of climate change.

Speaking at a recent seminar on supplying clean water for HCM City amid climate change, Bùi Thanh Giang, deputy general director of SAWACO, highlighted the urgent need to adapt to the changing environment and provide clean water to the growing population of the city.

“To address this, SAWACO has collaborated with scientists, engineers, and environmental experts to devise a comprehensive plan for long-term water management strategies,” he said.

SAWACO has conducted campaigns and educational programmes that focus on educating people about sustainable water usage practices, the importance of water conservation, and ways to reduce water wastage.

The company has invested in modern technologies and equipment for detecting and repairing water leakages in the water supply network to minimise water losses and ensure efficient water distribution.

It has introduced smart water metres in households and businesses, which provide real-time data on water consumption, enabling consumers to monitor and manage their water usage more effectively.

It has adopted a tariff structure that encourages responsible water usage. The pricing system incorporates progressive tariff rates, wherein higher water consumption leads to higher charges, which encourages people to reduce water consumption and be more mindful of water usage.

In addition, it has been working local authorities, educational institutions, and community groups to implement initiatives that foster responsible water usage practices and create a culture of water conservation in the city.

“As a result of the company’s efforts, city residents can now have a consistent and reliable water supply, ensuring public health and supporting economic growth,” according to Giang.

Climate change impact

Dr Nguyễn Minh Hòa, senior lecturer at the Faculty of Urban Studies, HCM City University of Social Sciences and Humanities, highlighted the impact of climate change on the city’s water resources.

The availability of water may be disrupted, causing harm to the well-being of people and ecosystems, particularly in low-lying areas like the Mekong Delta and HCM City, he said.

Experts have warned about the potential consequences of rising sea levels, including the submergence of the Mekong Delta region and a significant portion of HCM City’s area.

Saltwater intrusion poses a threat of increased salinity in water and groundwater, while droughts could lead to the depletion of reservoirs such as Trị An and Dầu Tiếng.

In addition to the challenges posed by climate change, the city’s population is growing, leading to an increased demand for fresh water.

With an average annual increase of 250,000 people, mainly migrant workers, HCM City's population is projected to reach 10 million by 2030 and 15 million by 2050.

The city is expected to attract 8-10 million international tourists and 15-20 million domestic tourists annually.

“Urban planning and collaborative efforts play a major role in helping the country’s largest city to overcome adversity and ensure a stable and clean water supply for all its residents,” according to Giang, deputy general director of SAWACO. — VNS

Engineers at SAWACO inspect and ensure the safe water supply at Thủ Đức water plant. Photo courtesy of SAWACO