A report has raised concerns about the potential collapse of Vietnam's famous "kissing rocks" located in the heart of Ha Long Bay. The bay, situated in Quang Ninh province, is adorned with numerous small islets that drew 4 million tourists in 2019.

The two rocks, which emerge from the bay and appear to touch each other, are a beloved spot among visitors.

However, experts cautioned in a report from July that rising sea levels and fishing boats coming too close are causing erosion of the rocks.

Ho Tien Chung from Vietnam's Institute of Geosciences and Mineral Resources highlighted illegal fishing and unregulated tourism as factors accelerating the rocks' deterioration.

During the report's research, workers observed a tourist boat coming within just 19 meters of the islet. Profound cracks were observed traversing the rocks, prompting warnings that they might crumble unless preservation measures are implemented.

Ho Tien Chung pointed out that tourists can witness the rocks' fragility during low tide when the water level recedes, revealing the weakened bases of the rocks. He emphasized the need for urgent protection and reinforcement measures to avert the risk of collapse.

Ha Long Bay's islets have long endured coastal erosion, with several other prominent tourist attractions suffering significant damage from relentless ocean forces in recent years.

To counteract the effects, the report urged officials to introduce new regulations to the bay, including limiting the speed of boats passing through it to just 5-10 km (3-6mph).

Local fishermen should also be encouraged to avoid fishing around the rocks to reduce churn and cement could be inserted into cracks in the islet to sure up its foundations, the report added.

We hope all those living around the area will evacuate the place as soon as possible.

Noted