Received: Feb 27, 2023 / Published: Dec 29, 2023
Dredging plays a crucial role in port management, but disposing dredged material in the ocean raises environmental concerns. In recent years, this practice has become more prevalent in Vietnam. This study examined the dispersion of total suspended solids (TSS) in seawater from the submersion of dredged material in Vung Ang Port, northern Vietnam, to evaluate the environmental impact. The study utilized MIKE modeling to simulate the dispersion of TSS during the 16 weeks following the submersion of dredged material into the sea. The model was validated with observed data and adjusted to accurately reproduce wave, water flow, and water level fields. The simulation showed that the propagation of TSS had a significant impact within a radius of 16-17km from the submersion location, with the most severe impact occurring within a radius of 2-3km. The TSS concentration is expected to exceed allowable limits, peaking after 4-5 weeks. Seawater occupation will reach maximums of 49.05ha and 140.66ha for depth increases above 0.5m and 0.1m. The submersion will negatively impact the environment. It is essential to regularly monitor TSS in affected areas during and after dredging to evaluate long-term effects and mitigation effectiveness. The significance of conducting additional research on the matter and the crucial insights offered by this study to pertinent management agencies for their decision-making processes are emphasized in the article. The study offers crucial insights for pertinent management agencies.
