by Vietnam’s iconic Ha Long Bay is facing a significant threat as pollution and over-development are causing the loss of its famous turquoise hue, endangering its wildlife and picturesque beauty. Ha Long Bay, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting over seven million visitors last year who wanted to explore its breathtaking blue-green waters and limestone islands covered in lush rainforests.
However, the rapid growth of Ha Long City, fueled by the popularity of the bay, has resulted in severe damage to its delicate ecosystem. The once pristine bay has been marred by excessive development, including the construction of a cable car, amusement park, luxury hotels, and thousands of new homes in the area. The surrounding town has already been extensively built up, with docks and luxury apartments dominating the shoreline.
Recently, state media published images of a massive construction site in a neighboring bay water, sparking outrage among conservationists. Experts estimate that there were initially around 234 types of coral in Ha Long Bay, but now only half remain due to the degradation of the water quality. Additionally, the bay is facing a significant challenge from plastic and human waste pollution.
Concerned tourists have expressed their disappointment with the decline in water quality. Anete Cimbule from Latvia, who visited the bay, mentioned that she had expected to see more of the famous blue waters of Vietnam and hoped for cleaner surroundings. In an attempt to offer an alternative perspective, some tourists have been boarding boat-planes for aerial views of the bay’s over 1,900 islands.
Despite the challenges, Captain Nguyen Ba Hai, who has flown over Ha Long Bay numerous times, remains hopeful about the future. According to Captain Hai, there has been noticeable improvement in reducing the discharge of plastic waste into the sea over the past decade, which is encouraging. However, he also expressed his longing for the return of the vibrant blue hue that the bay was known for.
Efforts to preserve Ha Long Bay’s beauty and protect its fragile ecosystem are crucial. Authorities need to address pollution and over-development concerns promptly to ensure the long-term sustainability of this renowned tourist destination. Encouraging environmentally-friendly practices, implementing effective waste management strategies, and promoting awareness among tourists and locals alike are vital steps towards restoring the bay’s vivid turquoise hue and maintaining its appeal. By taking these actions, Vietnam can ensure the preservation of Ha Long Bay’s natural wonders for generations to come.
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Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
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