A wastewater spill from an iron ore washing reservoir operated by Tienhao Kaobang Company in Viengxay district has turned the Nam Xang River dark red, raising serious concerns among local residents. The spill occurred on January 12 when overflow from the company’s reservoir in Fongxang village reached both the Nam Xang and Nam Poon rivers.

District authorities have ordered the company to temporarily suspend mining operations and improve its wastewater containment system. Water samples have been collected for analysis, and officials are working with affected villages to assess the damage and arrange compensation. This marks the second spill in recent months, prompting stricter measures against the company to prevent future incidents.

Local communities remain worried about potential harm to livestock and rice crops, as contaminated water could severely impact agricultural production in the area.

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