Residents of Lapen Center (also known as PVC-IC Diamond), located at 33A 30 Thang 4 Street, reported the extensive crack on 24/7. The horizontal crack at the base of a high-rise wall has caused worry among residents.

A large, long crack on the 16th floor of the apartment building. Photo: Truong Ha

Ms. Nhung, a resident of the affected apartment, said her family is avoiding the bedroom due to the large crack in the wall. Other smaller cracks throughout the apartment have also raised safety concerns.

Today, representatives from Lapen Center's management board offered to relocate Ms. Nhung's family to another location for safety, with the apartment's management covering the rental costs.

The crack at Lapen Center. Photo: Truong Ha

Lapen Center is a 34-story building with two basement levels and over 400 apartments. Opened in 2018, the building offers various amenities including a shopping center, cinema, swimming pool, and sports area.

Ha Huu Dung, vice chairman of the People's Committee of Tam Thang ward, said the local government has requested Ho Chi Minh City's Department of Construction to conduct a professional inspection to assess the situation, evaluate the risks, and propose solutions.

Lapen Center located on 30 Thang 4 Street, in the center of the former Vung Tau City. Photo: Truong Ha

Tam Thang ward previously invited officials from the former Ba Ria - Vung Tau province’s Construction Quality Inspection Center for a preliminary assessment. The initial assessment deemed the building safe for residents. Authorities have also cordoned off the area below the crack, warning residents to avoid it due to the risk of falling debris. Personnel are stationed on-site to respond to any further developments.

Truong Ha