The famous “kissing rocks” of Vietnam, situated in the heart of Ha Long Bay, face a dire threat of collapse, as outlined in a recent report. Ha Long Bay, nestled in Quang Ninh province, is adorned with numerous tiny islets, drawing in a staggering 4 million tourists in the year 2019 alone.
The twin rocks, rising majestically from the bay and appearing to lean in for a kiss, have become a beloved attraction among visitors.
However, experts caution that rising sea levels and the proximity of fishing vessels are contributing to the erosion of these iconic formations.
Illegal fishing and its impact
Ho Tien Chung from Vietnam’s Institute of Geosciences and Mineral Resources highlighted the detrimental impact of illegal fishing and unregulated tourism on the erosion process.
During research for the report, workers observed a tourist boat venturing as close as 19 meters to the islet, raising concerns about the safety of these geological wonders.
Deep crevices now mar the surface of the rocks, prompting experts to issue warnings of potential collapse unless immediate preservation efforts are undertaken.
Ho Tien Chung noted that at low tide, tourists can witness the precarious state of the rocks, with the supporting base gradually eroding—a situation that demands urgent protective and reinforcing measures.
Coastal erosion has long plagued the islets in Ha Long Bay, leading to significant damage to various tourist attractions in recent years due to relentless sea activity.
To combat these threats, the report recommends implementing new regulations, such as imposing speed limits of 5-10 km/h (3-6 mph) for boats passing through the bay.
Additionally, local fishermen are encouraged to avoid fishing near the rocks to minimize disturbance, while experts propose the use of cement to fortify the islets’ foundations by filling in the cracks.
These proactive steps aim to safeguard the integrity and allure of Ha Long Bay’s unique geological formations for future generations to cherish and admire.