Vietnam sinkhole: Experts warn of rising risks after 5-meter collapse

A sudden geological event has startled residents of Cao Bang, Vietnam, after a deep sinkhole opened up in a rice paddy. The incident occurred on June 3rd in Truong Ha commune when a farmer, Dam Van Tham, discovered a hole while working his land. What initially appeared as a surface collapse revealed a significant underground void.

The sinkhole, measuring about 55 cm in diameter at the opening, plunges vertically for 5 meters and extends horizontally for approximately 7 meters. Local authorities quickly responded, deploying police and military personnel to the site. They have established a safety perimeter, blocked water flow into the affected field, and erected earthen barriers around the hole's edge.

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this is "karst collapse" - a form of geological disaster common in limestone mountainous regions.

Residents have been alerted to the danger, with strict instructions to avoid the area and ensure children's safety. Experts have identified the phenomenon as "karst collapse," a common geological hazard in limestone mountainous areas. PGS-TS Tran Tan Van, former director of the Institute of Geo-science and Mineral Resources, explained that the area's Binh River sediment lies on a soluble limestone base, forming underground caves. Over time, thinning cave ceilings can give way under the weight of the overlying soil and surface pressure.

Dr. Van issued a stark warning: the risk of this sinkhole expanding or new ones appearing nearby is high. He attributed this to climate change, erratic weather patterns, and increasing human activities. Local authorities have reported the incident to higher levels and are collaborating with specialists for geological surveys. The goal is to establish monitoring stations and develop a long-term plan for safe remediation and protection of the community's agricultural production.

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the risk of this sinkhole expanding or new "death holes" appearing around it is very high due to climate change, storms, erratic temperatures, and increasing human activities.