Alarming water pollution

According to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Vietnam is facing an alarming level of water pollution. It is believed to be responsible for about 9,000 deaths a year, along with increasing number of cancer cases.

Major sources of pollution include untreated or partially-treated waste water from industrial production, craft villages, household and agriculture production. In addition to surface water pollution, groundwater is also faces issues such as saline intrusion, pesticide contamination and other harmful substances.

At present, around 60% of urban residents have access to drainage services, but only 12% of this wastewater is treated.