Reaching out to People in Flood-Stricken Areas: From Heart-Wrenching Stories to Warm Solidarity

Super Typhoon Yagi, the third storm of the year, struck northern Vietnam with devastating force. Its aftermath brought heavy rains that caused catastrophic flooding and landslides in northern provinces. Typhoon Yagi was the strongest storm in the East Sea in 30 years, accompanied by unprecedented rainfall in both lowlands and mountainous areas. Northern Vietnam experienced an extremely rare rainfall event, with totals ranging from 400-600 mm, triggering major flooding in most northern rivers, particularly in Lao Cai and Yen Bai provinces.

The toll of this disaster has been heartbreaking.  In the space of  a week, thenorthern provinces suffered immense loss  of  life and property. As of 8:00 AM on September 14, 2024, 351 people were reported dead or missing. The estimated economic loss exceeded VND16.68 trillion.

As the waters recede in many areas, Towards  the People in Flood Zones reflects on the recent storms and floods, highlighting the efforts and unity of the entire political system and government. It pays tribute to the lives  lost , the sacrifices made, and the deep sense of solidarity and compassion of the Vietnamese people.

In the program, journalist Thu Ha and editor Hanh Phuc from the VTV's Digital Content Production Center talked to guests to review the storm and flood aftermath and share unforgettable stories.

Nguyen Hoang Hiep, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development and Vice Chairman of the Central Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control, once again emphasized the unprecedented destruction caused by Typhoon Yagi and its aftermath, as well as the efforts to respond to the most dangerous situations during the disaster.

During the broadcast, Hoang Van Diep, chief of Nu Village in Phuc Khanh Commune, Bao Yen District, Lao Cai, and Hoang Thi Van, a teacher at Phuc Khanh Primary and Secondary School No. 1, shared stories from the heart of the flood zone, where much suffering has occurred in recent days.

From the moment the forecast warned of Typhoon Yagi's immense strength and potential disaster risk, the Party and State leadership directed the entire political system and armed forces to urgently respond, prioritizing the safety of every citizen. However, the storm's overwhelming force claimed hundreds of lives and destroyed much infrastructure. The government and local authorities at all levels are continuing their   relief and rehabilitation efforts.

In his message, General Secretary and President To Lam emphasized that "saving the people is the highest priority", ensuring that no one is left hungry or cold, especially the elderly, vulnerable groups, and children. Children must not be left without  schooling, and the sick must not be left without healthcare. This commitment to being close to the people and serving the people  them has never been more evident.

Being there for the people in their most difficult times warms the hearts of those in disaster-affected areas and strengthens their trust in the Party and the government. The armed forces also  played a key role during the disaster. Soldiers braved the storms and floods to rescue and assist the people, with some making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

As soon as news of the storm broke, brave individuals, including journalists, rushed to the heart of the disaster zones. These courageous reporters provided the fastest updates, sharing vivid images and voices from the flood-stricken areas with the people of Vietnam and the world.

Journalist Truong Son shares his experience of nine days covering the storm from Quang Ninh to Lao Cai.

Earlier this week, the Vietnam Fatherland Front Central Committee launched a campaign to support those affected by the storm and floods. This initiative called  on Vietnamese   people and soldiers, overseas Vietnamese, political and social organizations, businesses, philanthropists, and foreigners living and working in Vietnam to contribute make moral and material contributions to   help  the Party and State quickly restore production and improve people's lives. Donations poured in within a week.

During the program, Truong Thi Ngoc Anh, Vice Chairwoman of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Central Committee, provided an update on the donations received and expressed her emotional response to the unity and solidarity shown by the people of Vietnam towards those affected by the storm and floods.

Dr. Nguyen Viet Chuc, former Deputy Chairman of the National Assembly's Committee on Culture, Education, Youth, and Children, also expressed his admiration for the spirit of mutual support in the face of the disaster.

As of 8:50 PM on September 14, donations to VTV’s Tam Long Viet fund (Vietnamese Loving Heart Fund) continue to pour in to support those affected by the floods.

The bonds of solidarity and kinship among the Vietnamese people, no matter where they are, remain sacred and strong. These bonds have bound the people of Vietnam throughout history, from times of foreign invasion to natural disasters like storms and floods. While powerful winds and rains may knock down trees and homes, the enduring spirit of Vietnamese unity is not so easily shaken. Many young people today are continuing this tradition, volunteering with compassion and dedication, rushing into the heart of the storm to deliver timely aid to those in need.

After the storm, the sun will rise again. Life will go on, and together we will overcome. As we greet each new day, let us not forget that many of our fellow citizens still  face hardship and that children   still suffer  from the devastation caused by natural disasters and the unpredictable impacts of climate change. Let us remember the faces and eyes of those in distress, reminding us to act responsibly to protect our people, our country, and the environment in which our nation thrives.