The decree, which will go into effect on July 1, creates corridors of between 20m and 5m between river banks and the area in which businesses and individuals can build. The corridors will protect the waterways' stability, reduce the threat of erosion and mitigate water shortages. — Photo bizlive

HA NOI (Biz Hub)— The Government stipulated how far from river banks people can build in a decree issued on Wednesday.

The decree, which will go into effect on July 1, creates corridors of between 20m and 5m between river banks and the area in which businesses and individuals can build. The corridors will protect the waterways' stability, reduce the threat of erosion and mitigate water shortages.

The gap must be at least 10m from rivers, streams and canals passing through urban and residential areas. In non-residential areas, the space is reduced to 5m.

For rivers, streams and canals that are eroding or at risk of erosion, provincial and municipal People's Committees can change the corridor's width depending on local waterway conditions.

The decree also aims to prevent the encroachment of land upon water sources; mitigate activities causing water pollution; protect and develop marine ecology; create space for cultural and entertainment activities; and protect historical and religious areas near water sources.

It regulates water corridors for hydro-power reservoirs, irrigation reservoirs, and natural and man-made lakes, as well.

Naturally, land encroachment onto the corridors is prohibited.

Also, hospitals and clinics for infectious disease treatment, cemeteries, waste dumping grounds, toxic chemical manufacturing workshops, and manufacturing and processing workshops discharging harmful waste water were banned from building or expanding onto the corridors under the decree. — VNS