Fishing banned at Ha Long Bay to protect World Heritage site

The authorities of Ha Long city in Quang Ninh province, home to the UNESCO World Heritage site Ha Long Bay, have imposed a fishing ban in the area in a move to protect fishery resources and promote the value of the natural wonder.

The ban is part of various efforts to promote the value of Ha Long Bay. (Photo: Hanoi Times)

Ha Long Bay, a world natural heritage recognized by UNESCO, welcomes an increasing number of tourists who consume a lot of seafood. Due to overfishing, marine resources in Ha Long Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, and adjacent areas have been disappearing.

A ban on overexploitation of marine resources has become necessary to conserve nature and ensure a sustainable livelihood for coastal people.

The ban, effective from October 1, applies to all forms of fishing at tourist sites, caves, beaches, waterways, travel routes and areas that are included in the ecosystem protection plan in Ha Long Bay.

Only scuba ping and catching fish using traditional tools for tourism purposes which have been authorised by the relevant authorities are permitted.

Those violating the ban after October 1 will face punishment, including having their vessels and fishing instruments confiscated.

The authorities of Ha Long have also stepped up their efforts to deal with those using small unregistered boats to stalk tourist ships and hawk seafood and fruits, which could make travel in the bay unsafe and tarnishes the image of the World Heritage site./.

VNF/NDO