Developing Specific Resettlement Policies for the Ninh Thuan Nuclear Power Project

Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Phung Duc Tien and a delegation recently surveyed the resettlement situation in two communes where the Ninh Thuan Nuclear Power Plant is planned. The project includes two plants with a total capacity of about 4,600MW, requiring the relocation of over 600 households and clearance of over 1,600 hectares of land. Surveys indicate that residents are willing to relocate with adequate support. The delegation, after assessing the situation, held a working session with the Ninh Thuan Provincial People's Committee. Director Dang Kim Cuong reported that land acquisition is underway for both Ninh Thuan 1 and 2 Nuclear Power Plants, with surveys and notices issued for the project areas and resettlement areas. To ensure sustainable livelihoods for displaced residents, MARD and the provincial committee are proposing specific mechanisms and policies for agricultural development. These include government support for converting forest land, developing seaweed and aquaculture, and promoting specific crops and livestock. Experts suggest focusing on Ninh Thuan's existing agricultural strengths like aloe vera and grapes, applying high-technology farming methods due to limited land. While aquaculture presents potential, challenges remain due to the open sea conditions in the region. Vice Chairman Trinh Minh Hoang emphasized the need for comprehensive support for residents for at least eight years, focusing on occupational retraining and site clearance assistance. Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien concluded by stressing that resettlement must meet project criteria and include compensation, resettlement support, and production development components, leveraging Ninh Thuan's agricultural advantages and developing the fisheries sector.