Pham Huu Quang, a 30-year-old freelance businessman from Kien Xuong commune, purchased 200 life jackets with his own funds, inspired by a recent tragedy. The initiative stemmed from an incident on 12/9, when army major Tran Van Tung died after jumping into the Tra Ly river to save a young man who had jumped from a bridge. Following this sacrifice, Quang decided to equip local bridges with life-saving devices.

To prevent theft, Quang printed "Life jacket - Please do not steal" on the back of each item. "I simply want these life jackets to reach those who need them most", Quang stated.

Quang purchased 200 life jackets, preparing to hang them on bridges in Hung Yen province (formerly Thai Binh), on 16/9. *Photo provided by interviewee*

Starting on 17/9, Quang sought approval from various communal authorities to determine optimal installation sites. Working with his sister, he focused on large bridges over wide rivers, identifying these as high-risk areas for drowning incidents.

Quang secured the life jackets along both sides of the bridge railings, spaced 10 to 20 meters apart. Within two days, he completed the installation of 62 jackets across five bridges: Tan De (22), Bo (16), Thai Binh (12), Tra Giang (6), and Vo Hoi (6).

The project is expected to be completed within one week. Quang plans to purchase additional life jackets if the initial 200 are insufficient to cover all bridges in the area.

Quang and his sister hanging life jackets at Tan De bridge, Hung Yen province, on 17/9. *Photo provided by interviewee*

During the installation in Tra Giang commune, the siblings' efforts garnered support from passersby. People stopped to inquire and provided information about past drowning locations, helping Quang identify more areas for equipment. After the story was shared on social media, many contacted Quang to ask where they could buy life jackets to equip themselves.

Tran Quoc Hoi, Vice Chairman of Tra Giang Commune People's Committee, confirmed that Pham Huu Quang proactively contacted local authorities before starting the project. "Quang's actions are practical and provide timely rescue value in water emergencies", Hoi said.

Beyond this initiative, Quang regularly uses personal funds to support disadvantaged individuals in the community. He emphasized that "life jackets cannot prevent all accidents, but each one hung on a bridge increases the chance of survival for those in danger."

Quynh Nguyen