Dinner cruises - the main polluters of the two most scenic lakes in Hanoi - have not yet been removed, despite a Transport Department mandate that took effect two months ago.
This has caused discontent among the public and many are questioning the Government’s determination to protect the environment.
"They did not only take advantage of the lakes to do business, but also disposed of rubbish and pumped waste water into the lakes," said a 45 year-old teacher, Nguyen Hoang Lan on Gia Ngu Street.
"It is time for lake boats to be removed. However, they are still there regardless of the removal order," said Tran Van Nui on Lac Long Quan Street.
The transport department in June issued a decree stating houseboats on West and Truc Bach lakes must move by the end of August, and cease polluting the lakes. The deadline was later extended until the end of September.
The deadline has recently been extended again in order to complete a new pier for the boats to move to, said Le Van Phuong, Deputy Chairman of the Tay Ho District People’s Committee.
"The new pier has not been finished, so it is impossible to relocate there," said Le Minh Phuong, the owner of Potomac Houseboat - a business hosting boat parties on the lake.
"However, in the meantime, local authorities should stop houseboats from doing business on the lake to show that government orders are enforced," said Nguyen Hoang Lan.