Waste management has become a significant concern in HCM City, especially following the garbage overflow at the Da Phuoc landfill. In response, the People’s Committee of HCM City has issued specific directives to ensure waste security across the city.
Current Situation and Directives from the People’s Committee of HCM City
On January 24, the People’s Committee of HCM City instructed relevant departments, the People’s Committee of Thu Duc City, and districts to develop plans for the collection, transportation, and disposal of solid waste. These directives were based on the current situation and aimed at ensuring waste security throughout the city.
The leadership of the People’s Committee tasked the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (TN&MT) with clarifying the situation of workers stopping work at Vietnam Waste Solutions (VWS) on January 23. If the company commits to preventing such incidents, TN&MT will redistribute the volume of household waste to existing treatment facilities, including Da Phuoc Solid Waste Treatment Complex, West Basin Landfill Site No. 3, and other waste processing plants.
Da Phuoc landfill, where more than half of HCM City's waste is processed
Emergency Response Plans
In case VWS ceases operations at the Da Phuoc Solid Waste Treatment Complex, the TN&MT must coordinate with relevant agencies and localities to immediately implement alternative waste distribution plans. The waste will be redirected to two main processing plants: Vietstar Joint Stock Company and Tam Sinh Nghia Investment Development Joint Stock Company.
To address emergency situations, the People’s Committee of HCM City approved the activation of Landfill Site No. 3 at the West Basin Solid Waste Treatment Complex. This facility can handle between 2,000 and 6,000 tons of waste daily and has prepared backup solutions to ensure waste security.
Responsibilities of Stakeholders
The TN&MT is responsible for closely monitoring the transportation of household waste from local areas to treatment facilities. The Management Board of the Waste Treatment Complexes will collaborate with Thu Duc City and districts to update weight data at weigh stations and verify the amount of waste transported.
The Department of Transport is required to facilitate 24-hour access for waste transport vehicles and adjust routes to ensure safety and efficiency. Vietstar and Tam Sinh Nghia are advised to proactively receive waste from transport vehicles to prevent congestion. They will assist in waste reception as directed by the People’s Committee of HCM City if necessary.
Conclusion and Necessary Actions
Effective waste management in HCM City requires close collaboration among relevant authorities, units, and enterprises. Proposed contingency plans aim to ensure waste security, minimize negative environmental impacts, and improve residents’ quality of life.
Achieving these goals requires increased environmental awareness from individuals and organizations, along with support for the city’s policies and measures. Let’s work together towards a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable HCM City.
Source:
