Ca Cai Lake, a gorgeous respite nestled in a protected mangrove forest in Binh Son District, central Quang Ngai Province is facing a major threat from the rise of local aquaculture.

The lake, which had once been a popular retreat for local tourists, has been losing its ‘untouched charm’ when seven local households began encroaching on its waters.

On Monday, a taskforce from the Quang Ngai Forest Ranger Department announced that it had received a reported regarding deforestation and the illegal construction of fish ponds in the area.

Accordingly, local authorities patrolled the area and found several excavators mobilized by local residents to construct fish farming ponds in the forest.

Illegal fish farming ponds in Ca Cai Lake’s area. Photo courtesy of the local authorities

Local authorities are completing dossiers to administer appropriate punishments on involving households.

Ca Cai Lake is included in Binh Thuan Commune’s mangrove forest recovery project – an initiative which spans over the area of 93.8 hectares. It is famous among travellers for its wild, untouched beauty.

Row of newly-planted mangrove trees from above. Photo: Tran Mai / Tuoi Tre

According to the Quang Ngai Province Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the mangrove forest does not only play the role of a protective forest but also offers livelihoods for local communities.

Several agencies have proposed implementing community-based tourism projects around Ca Cai Lake. The deforestation, therefore, has posed threats to the local long-term development plan.

Workers plants trees as part of the local mangrove forest recovery project. These efforts are being threatened by deforestation. Photo: Tran Mai / Tuoi Tre

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