Environmental Crisis: Vietnam's 'Kissing Rocks' In Danger Of Collapse Due To Geological & Tectonic Movements
The famous 'Kissing Rocks' in Vietnam's scenic Ha Long Bay face an unprecedented threat: collapse owing to geological instability. Experts are raising the alarm and urging swift action to protect this natural wonder.?
The potential collapse of the 'Kissing Rocks' is not only environmentally hazardous but also culturally significant. Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, draws millions of tourists yearly to see its unique limestone karsts, the 'Kissing Rocks' being the most famous.?
Their end would not only degrade the bay's natural beauty but also influence the local economy, which is heavily reliant on tourists.Furthermore, these rocks are associated with love and devotion in Vietnamese folklore.?
The romantic legend of a young couple turned to stone, permanently locked in a kiss, has been celebrated by locals and visitors. The Kissing Rocks' disappearance would devastate the region's cultural heritage.
'Kissing Rocks' Crisis: Can Vietnam Preserve Its Natural Treasure?
In 2019, 4,000,000?tourists visited Ha Long Bay in Quang Ninh province, littered with hundreds of tiny islets. Visitors see the twin rocks that rise out of the bay and appear to "kiss" each other.?
However, researchers cautioned in a July paper that increasing sea levels and too-close fishing boats are causing the rocks to crumble. According to Ho Tien Chung of Vietnam's Institute of Geosciences and Mineral Resources, illegal fishing and unregulated tourists are hastening the erosion of the rocks.?
Workers spotted one tourist boat stopping within 19 metres of the islet while conducting research for the report.
'Kissing Rocks' Now Seen In Low Tide
Deep fractures were discovered spanning the rocks, indicating that they could collapse if action is not taken to preserve them."Tourists can see the precarious rocks at low tide," Ho Tien Chung explained.?
"The water level is then low, exposing the supporting foot of the rocks, which is gradually eroding, posing a risk of collapse if no measures to protect and reinforce them are taken soon."?
The bay's islets have long been buffeted by coastal erosion, and several other important tourist destinations have been severely destroyed in recent years by the sea's buffeting.?
To mitigate the effects, the research suggested officials implement additional laws in the area, such as limiting boat speeds to 5-10 km (3-6mph).According to the paper, local fishermen should be advised to avoid fishing near the rocks to decrease churn, and cement might be injected into fractures in the islet to strengthen its foundations.
The world watches with bated breath as specialists and environmentalists work tirelessly to conserve these renowned rocks. Their fate is unknown, but the drive to save them and their symbolic embrace is steadfast.?
The 'Kissing Rocks' of Ha Long Bay will hopefully be able to amaze future generations and remain a symbol of enduring love and natural beauty thanks to international collaboration and quick action.
What do you think about it? Do let us know in the comments.
For more trending stories, follow us on Telegram.
