Spatial Assessment of Pollutant Loads in the Ma River Basin, Song Ma District, Son La Province

This study evaluated the impact of pollution sources on the Ma River Basin in Son La Province, Vietnam, using data from local reports, statistical yearbooks, and scholarly literature. Through spatial analysis and statistical methods, the study mapped the distribution of pollutants across sub-basins in Song Ma district and assessed the pressure of each pollution source on water quality. The findings revealed that livestock raising and domestic activities were the major contributors to water pollution in the cluster 1 of sub-basins, while land-use activities were major threats to the surface water in the cluster 2 of sub-basins. The study recommended implementing centralized wastewater treatment systems in priority areas, promoting sustainable land management practices, and supporting environmentally friendly agricultural and livestock farming methods. These interventions are crucial for achieving sustainable development goals related to clean water and sanitation. The findings underscore the importance of integrated river basin management strategies to mitigate water pollution and ensure the long-term health and sustainability of the Ma River Basin.