The Lam Dong Provincial People's Committee declared a natural disaster emergency for Prenn Pass on 22/9.
According to local authorities, heavy, prolonged rains in August and September caused frequent landslides at various locations on Prenn Pass.
Specifically, on the afternoon of 19/9, significant soil and rockfall from the positive slope near the middle of the pass created unsafe conditions, directly endangering commuters. The area remains vulnerable to further landslides without timely intervention.
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The eroded landslide area risks sliding down Prenn Pass. Photo: Xuan Huong |
A survey by the Department of Construction revealed that the landslide site features an excavated slope approximately 20-25 m high and 120 m long. Geologically, it comprises soil mixed with isolated boulders, indicating overall instability.
To ensure safety, the Lam Dong Provincial People's Committee mandated urgent measures: warning signs, speed limits, observation points, and strict prohibition of unauthorized access to the hazardous area. Relevant units are required to maintain 24-hour on-site presence, monitor landslide developments, and manage traffic flow.
The Department of Construction proposed a solution to cut back the slope in the landslide zone, then reinforce it with a double-twist steel mesh system, steel cables, and polymer geotextile, secured by 6 m long steel anchor pins. The total estimated cost stands at 15,64 billion VND.
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Local authorities placed warning signs at the landslide site on the afternoon of 22/9. Photo: Khanh Huong |
Prenn Pass, a 7,27 km route, is a primary gateway connecting National Highway 20 to central Da Lat. The route, which received a 552 billion VND investment for expansion to four lanes, became operational in early 2024.
Forecasts indicate continued heavy rainfall in the coming days across Lam Dong and several southern provinces. Precipitation levels are commonly expected to be 150-250 mm, with some areas exceeding 400 mm. This concentrated, short-duration rain could heighten the risk of flash floods, inundation, and landslides.
Khanh Huong - Xuan Huong
