The Sơn La hydroelectric reservoir is a serene, emerald green, attracting tourists who want to experience the unique atmosphere when the hydroelectric plant operates by releasing water from the reservoir to regulate its flow.
On November 9th, Son La Hydropower Company opened one bottom sluice gate to regulate the reservoir water level, due to the release of floodwaters from the upstream Da River by the Tuo Ke He Hydropower Plant (China) and the opening of reservoir sluice gates by the Lai Chau Hydropower Plant.
The water in Son La Lake, near Quynh Nhai commune, is a beautiful blue. Photo: Nhat Minh
On November 11th, a reporter from Lao Dong Newspaper was present at the Son La Hydropower Dam area (Muong La commune) and observed a contrasting scene: while the white water surged downstream, the reservoir displayed a calm, emerald green landscape, reflecting the majestic mountain ranges of the Northwest region.
Even during the days when the Son La Hydropower Plant is operating and releasing water from its reservoir, the lake remains peaceful and crystal clear. The calm surface of the water facilitates waterway transportation, attracting many groups of tourists to experience ecotourism in the Muong La and Quynh Nhai areas.
The Heart Island area in Uy Phong Bay, Quynh Nhai commune, boasts turquoise waters that attract tourists to experience. Photo: Nhat Minh
Mr. La Van Phong, Director of Quynh Nhai Tourism Joint Stock Company, shared: “Tourists really love the clear blue water of the lake in early winter, November and December. During these days, the number of visitors increases significantly, with our three cruise ships welcoming over 100 guests per day on weekends.”
Meanwhile, the family of Mr. Cam Van Minh in La Muong village, Muong La commune, both raises fish in cages and provides a tourist transportation service around the lake. He said: "Previously, we only relied on fish farming, which provided a year-round harvest. Now, with the addition of tourism, our income is stable at over 200 million VND per year."
The Son La hydroelectric reservoir is not only beautiful but also provides a livelihood for hundreds of households around the lake. From cage fish farming and transportation services to community tourism and exploration experiences, these are gradually becoming the main sources of income for the people, opening up a sustainable development direction for the Da River reservoir area.
Ms. Luong Thu Trang, a tourist from To Hieu ward, shared: “What I like most about Son La Lake is its tranquility and picturesque scenery. The local cuisine is rich, and the people are friendly. This is a very worthwhile destination for a weekend getaway for the whole family.”
Tourists visit and enjoy themselves at Uy Phong Bay, in the Son La reservoir area of Quynh Nhai commune. Photo: Nhat Minh.
According to Son La Hydropower Company, as of 4 PM on November 11th, the upstream water level reached 215.45m; the inflow into the reservoir was 2,345m3/s; and the total outflow was 3,734m3/s.
Mr. Khuong The Anh, Director of Son La Hydropower Company, said: "The opening of one bottom sluice gate is closely monitored to ensure absolute safety for the downstream area as well as activities on the reservoir."
"Before operating the discharge system, the company widely publicized the information to local authorities to raise awareness and guide people to proactively respond," Mr. The Anh said.
Fish farming area in cages in La Muong village, Muong La commune. Photo: Truong Son
Looking out from the hydroelectric dam, the Son La reservoir still stretches out in a vibrant blue – a beauty that blends the power of this monumental project with the peacefulness of the Northwest's natural landscape.