On 9/8, a representative from the Son Tra Peninsula and Da Nang Tourist Beaches Management Board announced the installation of barriers and warning signs at unauthorized entry points leading to Mui Nghe. This action follows a recent incident where three women were swept out to sea in the dangerous area, with two still missing.

Around 6h on 8/8, a group of six people walked to Mui Nghe, Son Tra ward, for leisure. While moving, three 24-year-old women, Truong Thi Phuong, Mai Thi Phuong, and Tran Thi Anh Duong, slipped and were swept out to sea by waves. Mai Thi Phuong was rescued after about eight hours; the other two are missing. Eight years ago, two Filipino tourists also had an accident at Mui Nghe and were rescued. During the subsequent search for the missing women, a local resident slipped on a rock and died.

Border guards and police conducted search and rescue operations on the treacherous cliffs at Mui Nghe. *Quang Cuong*

Mui Nghe, located at the easternmost point of Son Tra peninsula, is about 21 km from downtown Da Nang. It is known for its rock-enclosed waters, which many call an "infinity pool." The sea around Mui Nghe features complex currents, necessitating safe distances for fishing boats. The area's rugged terrain complicates access by land or sea during emergencies. Despite these dangers, some people attempt to bypass barriers or use unauthorized trails to reach the rocky beach for sightseeing and photography.

Dang Cong Loi, a local who once trekked to Mui Nghe with an experienced guide, stated that the route has many treacherous sections. Those unfamiliar with the terrain can easily lose their way. The rocky beach is close to the sea, with slippery surfaces and some areas near cliffs. "On days with bad weather, visiting Mui Nghe is like facing death," Loi said.

On social media, videos showcasing Mui Nghe's scenery attract tens of thousands of interactions. Many people ask for directions and ways to access the rocky beach. According to frequent trekkers in Son Tra, online content primarily focuses on experiences and scenic beauty, while warnings about terrain, weather, and safety risks receive little attention.

Nguyen Thanh An, a guide specializing in trekking and hiking tours in Son Tra, stated that he usually leads clients along three routes approved by the Son Tra Forest Management Board. Before each trip, he informs the management unit to facilitate coordination and support in case of an incident. Despite numerous requests from clients, An declines to lead groups to the three areas of Mui Nghe, Bai Da Den, and Huc Lo due to safety concerns.

"A few minutes for a check-in photo are not worth risking personal safety and Da Nang's reputation as a destination," he said. An noted that the vast Son Tra forest, with its many trails and unauthorized entry points, makes it difficult for authorities to control entirely. Some self-guided groups often choose times outside of the management force's working hours to enter the forest, making detection and prevention more challenging.

Truong Thi Phuong was found alive by authorities after eight hours, clinging to an old net float and staying afloat on the sea. *Quang Cuong*

In addition to Mui Nghe, Bai Da Den and Huc Lo are also restricted areas in Son Tra where tours are not permitted. These locations feature rugged terrain and many difficult paths.

Currently, three authorized routes for visiting Son Tra include: Tien Sa - Suoi Om - Dinh Ban Co, Dinh Ban Co - Bai Bac, and Nga ba Bai Bac - Cay Da Di San. From March through September, visiting hours are 7:30-18:30; from October through February of the following year, they are 7:30-17:30. Routes are suspended during adverse weather warnings.

Following the incident on 8/8, local authorities plan to reinforce barriers at unauthorized entry points. They also requested forest rangers to increase patrols and penalize individuals who enter restricted areas without permission. The management board advises tourists not to bypass barriers or use unauthorized trails to descend to Mui Nghe, Bai Da Den, and Huc Lo.

Tuan Anh