Rivers and lakes across Hanoi are now in desperate need of rescue due to severe pollution.

On Wednesday, a Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper correspondent observed alarming conditions at Truc Bach Lake, located near Ngu Xa Street in Ba Dinh District, where the water was pitch-black with floating debris and emitted a foul stench.

Despite the lake’s severe contamination, untreated domestic wastewater continued to flow into it unchecked.

Truc Bach Lake, known for its prime location surrounded by bustling streets, has long been a draw for both locals and international visitors.

Now, however, pollution is driving visitors away and impacting residents.

Thuy, a 62-year-old resident who lives near the lake, said that the stench forced her to wear a mask, even indoors.

The lake’s pollution has also caused respiratory issues for many members of her family.

Such a beautiful spot becoming this filthy scared off any visitors, she said, urging authorities to prioritize environmental restoration.

Similarly, Giang Vo Lake in Ba Dinh District is plagued by garbage, including ritual offerings like incense stick containers and worship items discarded by local inhabitants.

Dead fish were found floating along its shores, releasing a pungent odor.

At the iconic West Lake in Tay Ho District, recent seasonal changes combined with water pollution have led to mass fish die-offs.

In response to Truc Bach Lake’s severe pollution, the administration of Ba Dinh District announced a plan to develop a wastewater collection project, with work scheduled to start early next year, a local official told Tuoi Tre on Wednesday.

The project, with a price tag of over VND45 billion (US$1.7 million), will be funded by the Ba Dinh administration.

Regarding West Lake, the administration of Tay Ho District has proposed a VND4.2-trillion ($165 million) restoration project, which includes VND2 trillion ($78 million) for dredging and improving the lake’s environment.

In March last year, Hanoi approved a list of 3,164 lakes and ponds that are strictly protected, with the aim of enhancing management and ensuring transparency while avoiding ambiguous regulations.

The Hanoi administration tasked the Department of Natural Resources and Environment with publishing this list and working with district authorities to continue reviewing, updating, and proposing adjustments to the list as needed.

Authorities also prohibit residents from illegally filling or encroaching upon lakes and ponds.

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