Amid increasingly complex climate change, rising upstream water exploitation, and pressures from urbanization and industrial development, surface water resources in Can Tho are declining. Additionally, increased groundwater extraction poses a growing risk of aquifer degradation and depletion.

Can Tho River. *An Binh*

Recognizing water resource management, especially groundwater, as a continuous, long-term task, Can Tho city has implemented various integrated solutions. Prior to administrative unit mergers, many local areas surveyed and assessed the reserves and quality of both surface and groundwater. Concurrently, they issued directives to strengthen management and restrict groundwater exploitation in areas with centralized water supply systems or potential for surface water exploitation.

Furthermore, the dissemination of water resource laws has been widely implemented, raising awareness among residents and businesses regarding water protection. Inspections and monitoring are conducted regularly, gradually systematizing water resource exploitation activities.

However, reality shows that the number of small-scale groundwater exploitation facilities in the area continues to increase, primarily serving agricultural production and aquaculture. Compliance with registration and licensing regulations remains slow among some residents, hindering management and control, and posing risks of declining water quality, lowered water tables, pollution, and saltwater intrusion.

On 18/11, the Can Tho City People's Committee issued a directive strengthening the management and protection of groundwater resources in the area. The directive aims to rectify and prevent over-exploitation that exceeds the water source's recovery capacity, while also improving state management effectiveness to ensure long-term water security.

According to the directive, management agencies, along with relevant organizations and individuals, must strictly comply with the Law on Water Resources and current legal regulations. Groundwater exploration, exploitation, use, and drilling activities must fully comply with technical requirements. Acts causing water pollution, illegal discharge, or falsifying water resource data are strictly prohibited.

The city also encourages combining and alternating the exploitation of surface water, groundwater, and rainwater. It promotes enhancing water recycling and reuse to reduce pressure on aquifers. The delineation of prohibited and restricted exploitation zones is implemented concurrently, prioritizing groundwater for domestic water supply, disaster prevention, and firefighting.

The Can Tho City Department of Agriculture and Environment is intensifying communication and training for organizations and individuals regarding groundwater exploitation and protection regulations, aiming to prevent violations from the outset. Concurrently, groundwater dynamics monitoring continues to be maintained to promptly detect signs of depletion or pollution and propose appropriate remedial measures. Inspection and supervision of drilling, exploration, and exploitation facilities are also strengthened, ensuring compliance with technical procedures and legal regulations.

Ngoc Minh