My Chanh bridges: Rescue operations underway for barges lodged by floods

Authorities in Quảng Trị province are working to clear sand barges that were swept away by floodwaters and became lodged under the My Chanh road and railway bridges in Nam Hai Lang commune. The incident occurred on September 13 when rising waters from the Ô Giang and Ô Lâu rivers caused three barges owned by the Quang Tri Nguyen Hoan Construction Materials Exploitation Company to break their moorings.

As of the afternoon of September 14, rescue teams successfully extracted the largest barge from its position wedged against the bridge structures. This operation involved pumping water out of the vessel, cutting through obstructions, and using heavy-duty cranes to lift it free. The barge has since been towed to a safe location downstream.

Efforts continue to address the remaining vessels. One barge remains partially submerged and tilted in the river, presenting significant challenges due to potential underwater obstructions. While road traffic on National Highway 1 remains normal, trains passing over the My Chanh railway bridge are currently restricted to a speed of approximately 15 km/h to ensure safety. Local officials, including Vice Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee Lê Văn Bảo, are overseeing the rescue operations to prevent further damage to the critical infrastructure.