On 21/9, a significant evacuation took place in Hung Son commune after deep cracks and fallen trees were reported on the peak of Porlai mountain. The immediate danger of a landslide prompted authorities and border guards to move 133 residents from 40 households in the Co Tu ethnic residential area at the mountain's slope to safety.

The alert came around 2:30 PM, when residents notified officials about the deteriorating mountain conditions. In response, the Ga Ry Border Post in Hung Son commune dispatched 25 officers and soldiers to coordinate with local forces for an inspection. Upon assessing the direct threat to the community, the teams promptly evacuated all affected households and their belongings.

Border forces and residents survey the area with large cracks. Photo: Phuc Truong

Residents were temporarily housed at secure locations: the former headquarters of Ga Ry commune People's Committee, the commune police headquarters, local schools, and the Ga Ry Border Post's storm shelter. The border post also provided 200 kg of rice from its reserves to support the families. Additionally, a military medical team offered free check-ups, medicine, and guidance on disease prevention at the temporary shelters.

Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Phuc Truong, Political Commissar of Ga Ry Border Post, stated that the cracks first appeared after heavy rains in early September. The situation worsened significantly on 21/9, with many new cracks emerging and a sharp increase in fallen forest trees.

Soldiers help residents move their belongings to a safe place. Photo: Phuc Truong

The cracked and sliding area is situated at an altitude of about 1,430-1,450 meters. Large sections of earth and rock are sliding in the underground layer beneath the decaying vegetation, creating elongated, irregular depressions not fully visible on the surface.

"Residents are highly likely to stay in temporary shelters long-term, possibly until Tet (Lunar New Year)," Lieutenant Colonel Truong said. "The reason is that from now until Tet is a continuous rainy season, and the imminent landslide risk means residents cannot return to their old homes yet."

Residents receive health check-ups and food support at their temporary shelters. Photo: Phuc Truong

To provide long-term housing, the locality is implementing a new resettlement project. Construction has been ongoing for 1,5 months, with units currently focusing on leveling the ground and clearing hills to create land for housing.

The area managed by the Ga Ry Border Post currently faces risks from about 17 landslide-prone areas. The unit maintains a 24/24 hour force on duty to monitor weather developments and subsidence on Porlai peak and other dangerous areas, ensuring a timely response to any further incidents.

Nguyen Dong