The project costs VND495 billion (US$21.3 million).

The environment monitoring system can track the air quality index, surface water levels, groundwater and land subsidence, VnExpress reports. Data collected from the monitoring devices will be sent to the operation center of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Natural Resources and Environment. Public warnings will then be issued based on these readings.

The system is part of the municipal department's plan to develop a network of environment monitors until 2030. Two air monitoring stations are being installed, one at the Saigon Hi-Tech Park in District 9 and another at the Binh Tan District Education Office, as a pilot scheme.

The department aims to have 16 similar stations around the city by 2030.

To measure water quality, several stations will be installed at different canals and rivers in the city, including two monitors to track wastewater quality in the Saigon River. The project also involves digging using technologically advanced tools to calculate land subsidence levels and their causes.

"This will enable the public to get regular information about the environment and predictions through apps akin to AirVisual and PamAir," said Cao Tung Son, the director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

A feasibility study for the project is being prepared to send to an evaluation council and the People’s Committee for approval.