Coconut Shell Charcoal Production Factory Causes Severe Pollution, Residents Suffer for Years

The plight of residents in Phu Tan ward, Vinh Long province, Vietnam, struggling with severe pollution from a coconut shell charcoal factory, is a stark reminder of the environmental challenges faced by many communities. Thanh Niên reports on the prolonged suffering of dozens of households whose lives have been upended by the factory's operations.

For years, the factory, reportedly leased by foreign individuals on agricultural land, has been a source of constant distress. Residents describe being forced to live with their doors and windows shut due to the pervasive black smoke, pungent odors, and deafening noise from the machinery. The pollution is so severe that dust and ash settle everywhere, forcing inhabitants to wear masks even indoors and leading to respiratory problems, particularly in children. The situation is particularly galling as the factory seems to operate day and night, with no apparent regard for the well-being of the local population.

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Tiếng ồn từ máy móc là dữ lắm, ồn như máy chà lúa vậy. Mùa mưa thì khói nghẹt ống xả, tro xỉ bay tứ tung, rơi vãi khắp nhà cửa, vườn dừa. Chỉ cần lấy tay quẹt một cái trên sàn nhà hoặc chân không mang dép là bụi than bám đen thui luôn. Bởi vậy, nhà tôi phải đóng cửa quanh năm, phơi quần áo còn không được, đứa cháu nội ho sốt suốt, bỏ học hoài và phải định kỳ đi khám và điều trị bệnh phổi tại Bệnh viện Phạm Ngọc Thạch ở TP.HCM. Báo chính quyền xuống nhưng rồi đâu lại vào đó

What is most concerning is the apparent lack of effective action from authorities despite repeated complaints. While local government officials have acknowledged the factory's violations, including illegal land use and construction, the promised remedies, such as dismantling illegal structures, have not materialized. Instead, the factory appears to have grown, even changing its legal entity multiple times, possibly as a tactic to evade regulatory action. This cycle of violations, complaints, and inaction leaves the residents feeling helpless and frustrated, trapped in an environment detrimental to their health and quality of life. Thanh Niên will continue to follow this issue, highlighting the need for robust environmental enforcement and accountability.

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Bà con nhiều lần kiến nghị, phản ánh và chính quyền nói công ty này hoạt động sai. Thế nhưng, càng ngày càng thấy nhà xưởng phát triển, tuyển thêm công nhân