Feasibility of riverbank filtration in Vietnam

Abstract

Riverbank filtration (RBF) could contribute to meeting the growing demand for drinking water in Vietnam. This study investigates the feasibility of implementing RBF in different regions of Vietnam, with a focus on the Red River Delta (RRD) and Binh Dinh (a province in central Vietnam). Although Vietnam’s extensive river network and shallow aquifers generally provide favorable hydrogeological conditions for RBF, regional variations in hydrogeology introduce specific challenges. In the RRD, complex hydrogeological settings, such as thick clay layers near the surface and low hydraulic conductivity in the Holocence aquifer, can limit the effectiveness of RBF in maximizing the portion of bank filtrate and improving water quality. In contrast, Binh Dinh generally presents more favorable conditions, with absence of clay layers on top and higher hydraulic conductivity leading to successful RBF implementation. Water quality issues such as high concentrations of ammonium, arsenic, and other pollutants persist in both RBF and groundwater in the RRD, requiring careful site-specific evaluations. The study also highlights that while surface water remains underutilized compared to groundwater, its use may be economically preferable in regions where groundwater quality is compromised. Lessons learned from the RRD and Binh Dinh can serve as good practice for RBF implementation in other parts of Vietnam. The findings indicate that while RBF holds significant promise for enhancing water supply in Vietnam, its application needs to be carefully tailored to local hydrogeological and water quality conditions.