Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính inspects the floods in Vân Hà Commune, Việt Yên Township, Bắc Giang Province. — VNA/VNS Photo Dương Giang

BẮC GIANG — Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính urged Bắc Giang Province's government to strengthen disaster recovery efforts while maintaining economic activity, especially in industrial zones, as the province is a key industrial hub in northern Việt Nam. 

He visited the northern locality on Tuesday to oversee rescue and relief efforts after Typhoon Yagi.

In Vân Hà Commune in Việt Yên Township, which has been severely impacted by rising waters that have left approximately 9,000 people isolated, PM Chính met with local authorities and rescue forces, urging them to continue evacuation of residents to safe places and ensure the distribution of essential supplies.

Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính talks with Vân Hà residents. — VNA/VNS Photo Dương Giang

He also urged them to take proactive measures to ensure road safety, especially in areas prone to floods and landslides.

In response to the severe flooding along the Cầu River, PM Chính called for immediate action from Bắc Giang's administration, including mobilising all available resources for evacuation efforts.

He emphasised that student safety is paramount and requested schools be reopened only in safe places. He also called for uninterrupted electricity and telecommunications to facilitate the emergency response and the ongoing needs of residents.

Houses in Vân Hà Commune are submerged by floodwaters as the river continues to overflow. — VNA/VNS Photo Dương Giang

The Prime Minister also urged Bắc Giang's government to crack down on those who spread rumours and fake news to prevent public anxiety. 

As the Cầu, Thương and Lục Nam Rivers are expected to continue flooding above warning Level 3, over 4,600 military personnel and numerous vehicles have been deployed for disaster relief efforts. 

The storm has caused approximately VNĐ300 billion (US$12 million) in damages and claimed one life in the province to date. — VNS