Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam, renowned for its stunning turquoise waters and picturesque limestone islands, is grappling with an environmental crisis as pollution and rapid development take a toll on its ecosystem.
With over seven million visitors last year, Ha Long Bay has become one of Vietnam’s most sought-after tourist destinations. However, the surging popularity has led to the unchecked growth of Ha Long City, featuring a cable car, amusement park, luxury hotels, and a surge in residential construction. The once-pristine bay is now marred by docks, luxury apartments, and a sprawling construction site, as revealed in recent state media images.
Conservationists express deep concern over the impact of this development on Ha Long Bay’s delicate ecosystem. The bay, home to a diverse range of wildlife, is now facing a significant decline in coral types, estimated to have been reduced by half from the original 234 varieties. Human and plastic waste further exacerbate the environmental challenges.
Tourists, who once flocked to witness the bay’s mesmerizing blue-green waters and lush landscapes, are now expressing disappointment. Despite efforts to address plastic waste, concerns persist about the long-term health of the bay’s ecosystem.
Captain Nguyen Ba Hai, who has flown over the bay multiple times, acknowledges some improvements in reducing plastic waste in the past decade. However, he shares the collective desire to see the waters return to their original vibrant blue hue.
As Ha Long Bay battles the dual threats of pollution and over-development, the call for sustainable tourism and conservation measures grows louder. The challenge lies in finding a delicate balance between catering to the tourism industry’s demands and preserving the natural beauty that has made Ha Long Bay a global treasure.
