Hanoi allows golf courses, paragliding at West Lake

In a document issued by the Hanoi People’s Committee on the management and utilization of the West Lake, several forms of businesses and services are now allowed to operate at the West Lake, including boat rides, art performances, swimming, diving, canoeing, paddleboarding and others.

There will be requirements regarding environmental management, including managing water quality, air quality and waste.

The Tay Ho District People’s Committee will be the contact point for management, and will cooperate with other relevant city authorities on the management of the West Lake.

There are already different forms of businesses along West Lake, including floating houses and boat rides. In 2017, Hanoi requested that businesses and services surrounding West Lake be suspended. Owners of cruise ships and floating houses were required to dismantle their properties and relocate them. However, the relocation of all cruise ships on the lake was only completed last year.

The West Lake, spanning over 500 ha, is located in northwestern Hanoi and is the largest natural freshwater body in the capital city. The lake is home to a diverse ecosystem of plant and animal species.