The inspection will last until March 20 and all results are expected to be reported to the Prime Minister before March 30.

PM Dũng's instruction came following some accidents in recent months, including one at Quảng Ngãi Central Market causing about US$9.6 million in damages.

The Government chief also asked the Ministry of Information and Communications to increase public awareness of fire prevention and to provide information on rescue methods and other safety standards.

The Ministry of Public Security was also instructed to inspect and punish all individuals or organizations which violate the fire prevention safety standards./.

By Khánh Phương