The encroachment and construction of makeshift stalls along the DT722, in the Langbiang - Dalat Ward area of Lam Dong Province, has been taking place since early 2025.
Picturesque grassland in the Dalat pine forest has been encroached upon by residents, who have put up makeshift stalls for trading (Photo: Minh Hau).
According to a report by Dantri, some of the areas occupied by vendors for trading are inside the pine forest. Vendors have selected flat sites with scenic views, driven wooden stakes into the ground and hung hammocks to sell food and refreshments to passing travellers.
At some locations, vendors have occupied hundreds of square metres of forest land, using plastic tarpaulins as roofs to create makeshift shelters for their businesses. One household has even built an enclosure to keep livestock beneath decades-old pine trees.
Residents have built livestock pens inside the pine forest (Photo: Minh Hau).
Nguyen Thi My, a visitor from Nghe An Province, said her family often spent time walking through Dalat's pine forests whenever they visited the city. Recently, however, several makeshift stalls selling food and drinks had appeared along the DT722 between the Ankroet hydropower plant and Cu Lan Village tourist area, creating an untidy appearance and spoiling the landscape.
According to observations, vendors transport goods and cooking equipment to the makeshift shelters every morning before arranging their stalls and preparing food for customers. At the end of the day's business, they leave the area at night.
The encroachment on forest land and construction of makeshift stalls have also led to rubbish being dumped in the forest, affecting the landscape and environmental sanitation.
The encroachment and trading have recurred despite repeated warnings and enforcement action by the authorities (Photo: Minh Hau).
Nguyen Luong Minh, deputy director of Bidoup - Nui Ba National Park, told Dantri that the encroachment and trading on forest land alongside the DT722 had been taking place for a long time. The park had repeatedly warned vendors and taken action, but some households had subsequently returned and resumed their activities.
"About six or seven households have encroached on the land and built makeshift shelters. They keep gradually expanding their occupied areas. Today, we will inspect the site, make a record and take action," Minh said.
Regarding the case, Langbiang - Dalat Ward authorities said they were aware of the situation and had sent personnel to inspect the area and take action.