HÀ NỘI — Hà Nội People’s Committee has banned the business operations of boats and floating houses on the West Lake.

Document No 6016 was signed by the committee’s deputy chairman Nguyễn Thế Hùng halting the operations of boats, floating houses and ports for two reasons -- firstly, the facilities did not meet standards of operation for the domestic port, and secondly, for environmental inspection.

The city Transport Department is responsible for coordinating with relevant offices to regularly inspect all companies engaging in the West Lake waterway business, according to the document.

Based on the legal document and state regulations, the department will put forward measures to deal with companies violating norms.

It will also work out management measures on the waterway port in West Lake to meet requirements regarding waterway, fire and labour safety, environment protection and urban beauty.

An official said the city People’s Committee has received a proposal from the Transport Department on the location of business areas owned by the West Lake Floating House Tourism Services Joint Stock Company.

An inter-sector inspection team on business operations and the safety of boats and floating houses on West Lake was formed, Vũ Văn Viện, Transport Department director, said.

According to the Hà Nội People’s Committee, 13 businesses are operating on the lake with waterway vehicles, various tour boats, duck boats and canoes, as well as floating houses and floating objects, such as leading bridges.

West Lake in Hà Nội’s Tây Hồ District is well-known for its breathtaking view and also for the various floating houses and boats which house cafés and restaurants. Locals and foreign tourists enjoy the food and drinks on board as well as the tours on the lake.

Tây Hồ District authorities have not allowed any tourism, sports and cultural activities on the lake. — VNS