PM asks for establishing dioxin and landmine contamination map

PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc chairs the first session of the National Steering Committee on the Settlement of Post-war Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) and Toxic Chemical Consequences (Committee 701), Ha Noi, August 7, 2018 - Photo: VGP/Quang Hieu

The committee was formed in April 2018 on the foundation of the State Steering Committee for National Action Program on the Settlement of Toxic Chemical Consequences. PM Phuc is head of the committee. 

The committee has directed the investigation and mapping of landmine/ UXO contamination nationwide for the first period, identifying polluted areas at 19 localities.

Bombs and mines clearance has been launched at around 30,000-50,000 ha per year. The settlement of Agent Orange toxic chemical at Da Nang International Airport has been completed, which helped transfer 29 ha of clean land for the extension of the airport serving for the APEC 2017 and the city’s socio-economic development. 

Speaking at the meeting, the PM asked to carry out the next phase of the project to minimize exposure to dioxin, referring shortcomings and obstacles in settlement of UXO. 

He requested to set up a dioxin and landmine contamination map and complete policies for victims and subjects related to bombs and mines and toxic chemicals. 

The Government leader highlighted the enhancement of international cooperation for mobilizing more resources for overcoming consequences of bombs and mines and toxic chemicals. 

By Thuy Dung