On 31/7, the Quang Ninh People's Committee (UBND) met to discuss enhancing disaster warnings and ensuring the safety of vessels and tourists in Ha Long Bay.

According to Vice Chairman Nguyen Van Cong, Quang Ninh has collaborated with the Institute of Geosciences to implement a storm, tornado, and lightning warning system at key locations, especially in Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay. While the equipment is being installed, ensuring the safety of vessels and tourists remains a top priority.

The Department of Construction and the Ha Long Bay Management Board have been tasked with researching a 24/7 vessel tracking system to monitor and communicate with vessels during emergencies. All vessels are required to provide safety information and instructions to passengers before departure. "Vessels that fail to comply will not be allowed to leave port," Mr. Cong stated.

Tourist boats in Ha Long Bay will be monitored 24/7. Photo: Le Tan

Furthermore, relevant agencies have been asked to urgently inspect all rescue equipment on board vessels and to identify and publicize safe natural shelters along tourist routes by 15/8.

Mr. Cong emphasized, "Agencies must strictly implement directives on disaster preparedness and response. Violations will result in legal consequences."

These directives follow the July 19 capsizing of the Vinh Xanh 58, which carried 49 people, in Ha Long Bay during a storm. The incident, which resulted in 39 deaths and 10 survivors, exposed gaps in vessel monitoring and emergency response. The Vinh Xanh's GPS tracking system lost connection at 2:05 PM, but the Border Guard did not receive the accident report until 3:30 PM.

Le Tan