 Tourism boats in Quang Ninh province have installed maritime positioning systems integrated with Automatic Identification System. (photo: VOV) |
The installation of AIS on all tour boats will be completed by Friday. AIS is an advanced maritime device used for offshore vessels, capable of positioning, communicating, and sending rescue signals without relying on mobile phone networks.
Captain Nguyen Cuu Long of the vessel APOLO QN-9888 said:“VHF and AIS devices are already connected so when a vessel presses the alarm button, its location will be immediately identified. All boats want to be connected with each other to ensure the safety of passengers and vessels.”
Previously, only vessels carrying more than 50 passengers were required to install AIS. Smaller boats only needed GPS (Global Positioning System) and VHF (Very High Frequency) radios. Now, 80% of tour boats on Ha Long Bay have installed AIS. Once connected, voyage data will be transmitted directly to management agencies such as the Inland Waterway Port Authority, registry offices, Border Guards, and the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, forming a round-the-clock monitoring and operational network.
Ha Hoang Hiep from Hon Gai Coastal Information Station, explained: “These three devices have distinct functions. AIS transmits signals so that management agencies know what vessels have lost connection on the bay. VHF provides voice communication in emergency situations. GPS provides positioning but depends on a 4G mobile signal. When a signal is sent, the station will receive it, process it, and forward it to search and rescue groups to ensure the fastest possible response.”
Military medical boats and rapid-response boats operate around the clock on Hạ Long Bay. Quang Ninh province is working with the Institute of Earth Sciences to soon deploy an early warning system for thunderstorms and squalls in Ha Long, Bai Tu Long, and coastal areas. The observation stations will be connected to the vessel management system, enhancing the system’s overall effectiveness.