A small boat intended to carry people across the Hội Nguyên River in Nghệ An capsized on Wednesday afternoon, but fortunately, no casualties were reported. The incident was confirmed by Đậu Đức Truyền, the chairman of the People's Committee of Yên Hòa Commune, where the river is located.

The Yên Hòa Commune is separated from the provincial center by the river and was previously connected by the Trung Thắng Bridge, a vital transport route for over 1,000 residents in remote villages. However, this bridge has been washed away by floods twice, once in 2025 and again in late August.

In response to the bridge's destruction, local authorities established a task force to assist residents and students in crossing the river using small boats. On Wednesday, at around 4 PM, a boat was transporting residents when a surge of water from upstream caused the river level to rise unexpectedly.

As the boat approached the riverbank, its stern snagged on a line, leading it to lose balance, tilt, and ultimately capsize. Fortunately, task forces stationed nearby quickly rushed to assist the passengers, ensuring everyone was brought safely ashore.

"Everyone on board was wearing a life jacket, so fortunately, there were no tragic consequences," said chairman Truyền. Following the incident, the boat was retrieved from the water, and all boat transport across the river was suspended.

Authorities have stated that they will continue to monitor weather conditions and water levels on the river. During the rainy season, river crossings will only be permitted in extreme emergencies, such as transporting patients for urgent medical care, and will be conducted with strict safety measures in place. Competent forces are on standby to monitor warnings and water levels to prevent further river-crossing attempts by residents.