The decision, which took effect in June, allows authorities to regulate activities around water bodies as urbanisation continues to reduce natural water retention areas.
Under the list, two protected water bodies are located in the former HCM City area, 17 in the former Binh Duong Province and 48 in the former Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province.
Con Dao Special Zone accounts for the largest number of protected water bodies with six, followed by Long Huong Ward and Binh Gia Commune with five each. Most other localities have between one and three.
Song Ray Reservoir is the largest protected water body, covering more than 19.2 million square metres, followed by Da Den and Da Bang reservoirs. The three play key roles in water supply and ecological regulation.
Several urban water bodies have also been included, such as Song Tan Pond, which covers more than 94,000 square metres, and Huong Tram Fish Pond, spanning 45,000 square metres in the former District 7 area.
Their inclusion means the water surfaces must be maintained and cannot be converted into construction land or used for other purposes without approval.
Organisations and individuals managing the protected sites are prohibited from filling, encroaching on, altering or discharging waste into them.
Tourism, recreational and aquaculture activities may only be carried out with permission from competent authorities.
Local authorities have been tasked with publicising the list, inspecting site conditions and handling violations.
The list will be reviewed every five years and updated when necessary to include additional water bodies requiring protection.
