Drying river halts hydropower plants leading to blackouts

The river’s alluvial ground has become a field where buffalos are let loose. The water level got so low that the Son La hydropower plant, the biggest in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, was forced to suspend operations.

Khoang Van Nguy, 72, often brings his buffalos to the alluvial grounds. Due to the low water level, he only needs to travel 3 km to get his buffalos to their feeding site. He usually has to walk up into the mountains 5 km.

Locals said it has been three weeks without a single rain drop. The ground is cracked as a result.

Fish cages are laid on bare ground.

A field of alluvial ground in Muong Lay Town is in prime time for harvest. People have usually had to harvest things quickly before the water rises. But this year, they may take things more slowly.