Experts offer suggestions to remove scripts on Halong Bay caves
Using paint remover, paint or specialized grinders to remove scripts written on the rock and cliffs in caves in Halong Bay, a world natural heritage site, has been proposed by experts.
Prof. Ta Hoa Phuong, chairman of the Vietnam Paleontology - Stratigraphy Association, suggested using paint close to the color of the stone.
Experts offer suggestions to remove scripts on Halong Bay caves
A geological expert said that cement could be used to cover the letters but the color must be similar to the color of the cliff.
Dr. Le Thanh Hai, from the Hi-PEC Petrochemical JSC, said that using paint, in this case, would make the relics look ugly. It is difficult to choose paint of the same color as the rocks.
Dr. Hai proposed two methods: using chemicals (paint remover) and a specialized grinder. However, the first method is unable to handle the letters carved on the rock. The second method is good for both painted and engraved letters but is expensive and requires the involvement of experts.
Hai’s proposals are supported by many experts. However, to put an end to the situation, the Halong Bay Management Board should impose heavy sanctions on violators.
Experts offer suggestions to remove scripts on Halong Bay caves
The Halong Bay Management Board has decided to test using dissolved bat feces to delete letters and symbols written on rocks and cliffs inside caves in Halong Bay.
Nguyen Cong Thai, Deputy Chief of the Halong Bay Management Board, said last year the board invited Paul William, a geologist and lecturer at the University of Auckland (New Zealand) to Vietnam to give advice on measures to clean the letters in caves.
William’s ideas have been sent to relevant agencies for consideration. The Institute of Chemistry, Geosciences and Minerals of Vietnam and the Institute for Restoration of Monuments are sending their staff to the cave to research and find the best solutions, Thai said.
While waiting for feedback from scientists, the Halong Bay Management Board has tested a number of ways, including the use of bat feces to cover letters written with coal and lime and at low positions.
For the letters written with paint and tar, the board covered them with cement with the color the same as the rock and cliffs. The initial result was good, Thai said.
