The Quang Binh Province People's Committee defended the controversial cable car project scheduled to be built near the world's largest cave, Son Doong.
Director of Sun Group answers questions
At a press conference held on November 4, provincial authorities said they had conducted over 10 studies with the input of many local and foreign engineers and scientists.
When asked whether a cable system might take away from the natural beauty of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Nguyen Huu Hoai, provincial chairman, touted the scenery of the area and said tourism could be a valuable way to lift many households in the poor region out of poverty.
He went on to say that forest protection would be a main priority in the development process.
Inside Son Doong Cave
Dang Minh Tuong, director of Sun Group, the project investor, said the cable system would be located outside Son Doong Cave.
"It will not be inside the cave, as many have thought. The final terminal will be 300m away from the cave's mouth. We'll also consult with relevant agencies to be sure that the project will not violate UNESCO conventions on preservation of cultural and natural heritage sites," he said.
The authorities and investors confirmed that adventure tours would not be affected, as 80 UNESCO-recognised sites around the world have similar cable systems.
They emphasised that the cable will improve the provincial tourism industry and create jobs for thousands of people. Moreover, the cable system will also help forest rangers protect the site from illegal loggers and fire.