Inter-agency Campaign Targets Illegal Mooring Activities in Ha Long Bay

An inter-agency task force comprising the Ha Long Bay – Yen Tu World Heritage Management Board, the Waterway Police, the Border Guard Command, and Hong Gai Ward authorities has launched a coordinated campaign to raise awareness, inspect, and address illegal vessel mooring activities along the coastal areas of Ha Long Bay. The initiative aims to preserve the urban landscape, ensure inland waterway safety, and safeguard the environmental integrity of the World Heritage site.

The campaign follows directives issued by the Quang Ninh Provincial People’s Committee to strengthen the management of fishing vessels and other watercraft operating and anchoring within Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay. Inspection teams conducted on-site assessments at several locations where unauthorized mooring has frequently occurred.

During the operation, authorities engaged directly with vessel owners and operators, encouraging strict compliance with regulations governing anchorage and maritime activities. Boats found occupying prohibited zones, obstructing navigational corridors, contributing to environmental pollution, or negatively affecting the scenic coastal landscape were instructed to relocate immediately. Administrative records were issued in cases where violations persisted despite repeated warnings.

According to representatives of the task force, enforcement efforts faced considerable challenges, as many of the vessels inspected were unattended, with neither owners nor authorized representatives present on board. This complicated the verification of vessel information, the preparation of legal documentation, and the organization of relocation measures for violating boats.

The campaign reflects the strong commitment of local authorities and relevant agencies to restoring order in vessel mooring activities across Ha Long Bay. It also contributes to the long-term protection of the bay’s exceptional natural and cultural values, while reinforcing the image of Ha Long as a safe, sustainable, and environmentally responsible destination of global significance.

Huy Hoang