Boats have caused damage to the UNESCO site's environment over the last decade. — VNA/VNS Photo

QUẢNG NINH — Inland waterway vehicles will not be allowed to anchor in the buffer zone along the shores of Hạ Long Bay from August 1.

This is an effort by authorities to resolve the issue of ships, fishing boats, and other waterway vehicles docking in unauthorised areas and to protect the landscape and environment of the bay.

Specifically, the city People's Committee requested all organisations and individuals not to anchor vehicles in the buffer zone along the shores of Hạ Long Bay, within the administrative boundaries of Bạch Đằng, Hà Phong, Hà Tu, Hồng Hà, Hồng Hải, Hồng Gai and Yết Kiêu wards (except in emergency cases).

For fishing boats, ships and supply vessels, they should move to the temporary fishing ports in Cao Xanh and Hà Phong wards. Violations will be strictly handled.

Previously, hundreds of boats and vessels had frequently been seen operating and anchoring illegally along the shores of the bay.

Among them, many fishing families living on boats have discharged waste into the sea, causing environmental pollution.

Many vessels involved in seafood exploitation have also caused ecological imbalances through destructive fishing practices. — VNS