Fields in Son La green again post-typhoon

Tong Co commune in Thuan Chau district was among the hardest hit. The deluge inundated almost all of local rice fields, leaving them buried in silt. As soon as the waters receded, farmers in Tong Co started to clear debris from the fields and begin replanting. In areas where the water drained too slowly, some farmers have shifted to growing grasses to serve livestock production.

Local resident Luong Thi Dinh said: "My family's entire rice crop was destroyed by the flood. After the water receded, the commune provided us with new rice seeds and guided us in soil treatment for re-sowing. Now, the rice is growing well, and I hope we won't lose the crop again."

The local government has distributed nearly one tonne of rice seeds and over 500 kilograms of fertilizer to 300 households in Tong Co to help restore 30 hectares of winter-spring rice.

Mr. Lo Van Hao, Vice Chairman of the Tong Co People's Committee, said: "We've directed villagers to replant rice where possible and provided seeds to help with recovery. In areas where flooding has made replanting impossible, we are guiding farmers to switch to crops like vegetables and corn."

Across Son La province, heavy rains triggered by typhoon Yagi damaged almost 2,000 hectares of rice.

Mr. Ho Trung Kien, head of the provincial Department of Cultivation and Plant Protection, said: "We’re urging farmers to check their fields and take measures to protect against pests and diseases post-typhoon. For rice that’s just beginning to mature, farmers should bind the plants together with string to prevent further damage. For crops that are ready to harvest, we advise harvesting early to avoid further losses."

As unpredictable weather patterns continue to pose a threat, local officials are advising farmers to remain vigilant and take preventive measures to protect their crops. Despite the challenges, Son La's rice fields are gradually returning to their vibrant green, thanks to the collective efforts of farmers and local authorities.