Community, Enterprise, and State in Groundwater Governance: The Case of the Long Xuyen Quadrangle-Vietnam

Abstract

Groundwater is a critical resource for water security, agriculture, and livelihoods in the Long Xuyen Quadrangle (LXQ) of the Mekong Delta. However, the region faces mounting challenges including over-extraction, declining quality, weak monitoring, and limited institutional capacity. This study examines groundwater use and management through surveys of 162 households, 20 enterprises, and 20 government officials in An Giang and Kien Giang provinces. Results show that more than 80% of users remain heavily dependent on groundwater, while unlicensed extraction is widespread (≈80% of households and 50% of enterprises) and water quality monitoring is largely absent. Signs of degradation such as iron contamination, salinity intrusion, and discoloration were commonly reported. Despite recognizing over-extraction, local authorities rely mainly on manual management tools and face shortages of staff and financial resources, creating a significant gap between regulations and actual practices. The findings highlight a “knowledge–action” paradox in groundwater governance. To ensure long-term sustainability, the study proposes an integrated framework that strengthens licensing, expands clean water infrastructure, adopts digital monitoring systems, and enhances inter-provincial coordination. Raising community awareness and participation is essential to secure sustainable groundwater use and water security in the LXQ.