The Quan Truong river embankment project was approved by the Khanh Hoa Provincial People's Committee in 2003. After six years and several adjustments, construction began. By 2019, the project was completed and awaited acceptance and handover.

However, to date, the project's acceptance phase remains stalled due to two strips of trees growing along the embankment. These trees extend for about 4-5 km on both sides of the lower Quan Truong river in Nam Nha Trang ward. According to residents, these trees, taller than one meter, grew naturally during the project's implementation.

Two rows of trees grow along the embankment of the Quan Truong river, Nha Trang. Photo: Bui Toan.

Given this situation, the Provincial People's Committee met with departments, agencies, and experts to consider options for retaining or removing these trees. According to the Department of Agriculture and Environment, specialized units agreed that the trees do not conform to the approved design documents.

Beyond the design factor, trees growing close to the structure also affect the embankment's integrity. Large root systems cause cracks and surface peeling. They can also obstruct water flow and slow the canal's flood drainage capacity. Therefore, experts proposed removing all trees from the embankment section.

Trees grow close to the embankment, extending into the riverbank. Photo: Bui Toan.

Trinh Minh Hoang, Vice Chairman of the Khanh Hoa Provincial People's Committee, stated that the province agreed with this proposal. However, the tree removal has not received consensus from some households living along both sides of the lower river. The province has assigned relevant units to continue gathering public feedback to avoid potential objections during the process.

The Quan Truong river is about 15 km long, comprising a 9 km main eastern branch and a 6 km western branch (Tac river). The river flows into Cua Be, and along with the Cai river, contributes to air regulation and directly impacts the water quality of Nha Trang bay.

Bui Toan