Echoes of the Shipbuilding Village in Son Dong

Situated on the left bank of the peaceful Lo River, Son Dong commune has long been known as the cradle of a steel shipbuilding and barge manufacturing industry famous throughout Northern Vietnam. Despite facing numerous ups and downs alongside economic shifts, this traditional craft is still preserved and developed by the locals, serving as a vital driving force for the local economy.

Currently, the entire commune has more than 1,000 households involved in shipbuilding and waterway transport services. Among them, over 400 households are transport shipowners or proprietors of large-scale ship repair and construction facilities, concentrated mainly in the villages of Phu Hau, Phu Hau Thuong, and Phu Hau Trung.

Building a large-scale steel vessel is a task that requires high technical expertise and absolute precision.

The production process comprises multiple stages, but it primarily involves assembling and welding components based on meticulously calculated designs.

Different parts of the vessel are fabricated and assembled separately in specialized sections before being integrated into a unified structure.

From raw, initial steel plates, the skillful hands of experienced craftsmen gradually shape the vessel’s framework. This stage demands meticulous attention to detail and extensive experience, as this “backbone” determines the ship’s durability, load capacity, and lifespan.

After the framing system is completed, large steel plates are continuously welded together to form a sturdy outer hull.

Once the main hull is basicially complete, polishing, surface treatment, and anti-rust painting are carefully carried out to protect the vessel against the harsh environments of riverways.

Critical components such as anchors, the wheelhouse, and the propeller system... are strictly installed and inspected before launching.

Beyond establishing a reputation for a traditional craft village, shipbuilding is also deeply intertwined with the waterway transport activities of the Son Dong people.

The imagery of ships and barges taking shape creates a unique portrait of labor, reflecting the vitality and aspirations for growth of the local residents.

Currently, the entire commune has over 350 vessels of various types specializing in cargo transport to many provinces and cities across Northern Vietnam. Waterway transport activities generate a stable source of income, helping many families earn hundreds of millions of VND annually.

The vessels created by the hands and minds of Son Dong craftsmen carry local pride as they venture far across the rivers of the country.

Le Minh