On the morning of 28/2, thousands gathered at Thuan An estuary to watch the boat race at the Thai Duong Ha village fishing festival.

People use boats to follow the boat race on Tam Giang lagoon. Photo: Vo Thanh

A boat carrying 11 residents from the former Hai Duong commune capsized on Tam Giang lagoon while they were watching a boat race, resulting in the deaths of a 25-year-old woman and her 3-year-old son. Locals and authorities rescued 9 other people safely.

Authorities in Thuan An ward provided support and visited the affected family. Organizers also suspended the boat race at the Thai Duong Ha village fishing festival.

Residents watch the boat race at the Thai Duong Ha village fishing festival on 27/2. Photo: Vo Thanh

The Thai Duong Ha village fishing festival, held once every three years by Thai Duong Ha village in Thuan An ward, takes place on the 11th and 12th days of the first lunar month. This early-year festival traditionally prays for favorable weather and prosperous fishing. It draws many residents from surrounding areas, especially for the boat race on Tam Giang lagoon.

Vo Thanh