The 40-metre breach in the newly-built Ia Krel 2 dam in the Central Highlands' Duc Co District, Gia Lai Province. — VNA Photo

GIA LAI (VNS)— A 40-metre breach in the newly-built la Krel 2 dam in the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai caused flooding that swept away at least 10 farm workers yesterday. All were rescued unharmed.

The break occurred early yesterday morning in a commune in Duc Co District near the Cambodian border, inundating 30ha of farmland.

According to Siu Sum, head of the Ia Dom Commune People's Committee, as the breach occurred suddenly, he could not inform the commune, which is seven kilometres away.

But soon afterwards, troops stationed in the district arrived and helped move residents to safer areas.

There is no information yet about casualties but fortunately the affected area is thinly populated, Siu Sum said.

The gushing waters have left thousands of tonnes of stones strewn behind.

The 5.5 Megawatt Ia Krel 2 hydroelectricity project was built in 2010 by the Bao Long – Gia Lai Industry and Hydroelectricity Company at a cost of VND120 billion (US$5.7 million).

Its reservoir, closed last month, is 200 metres long.

The cause of the breach is under investigation. — VNS