Fishing will be prohibited in the waters around the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge starting in March to ensure navigation safety and protect the bridge structure in the Pearl River estuary.

The ban covers water areas within 5 kilometers on both sides of the bridge's entire axis in Guangdong, according to the Regulations on Safety Management of Sea Fishing in Zhuhai Special Economic Zone. It also applies to nearby nature reserves, military restricted zones and harbor waters.

The regulation, passed by the Zhuhai People's Congress, takes effect on March 1. It is the first rule in Guangdong province specifically regulating sea fishing safety.

Sea fishing activities in the bridge waters could interfere with ship navigation and lead to accidents, said Wen Guangfu, deputy director of the Zhuhai maritime safety administration.

The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, which spans a busy shipping lane, connects the eastern and western parts of the Pearl River Delta and is a key link in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The 55-km project, which includes a bridge, undersea tunnels and artificial islands, opened in 2018.

Ensuring the safety of the bridge and maintaining orderly ship navigation in surrounding waters is critical, Wen said.

Zhuhai's sea fishing industry has grown in recent years, bringing safety concerns, said Liang Xianming, deputy director of the Zhuhai ocean development bureau. The city, which has abundant fishing resources, has hosted multiple national and international sea fishing events.

"The city government attaches great importance to the management of sea fishing events," Liang said. "The new regulation will clarify government and industry responsibilities, strengthen safety oversight, minimize risks, and safeguard lives and property."

The regulation requires fishing vessels to report departure and return times to maritime authorities. Boats must be equipped with automatic identification systems, satellite positioning devices and other safety equipment. Passengers must be provided with life jackets and positioning devices.

Unlicensed vessels are banned from participating in sea fishing events. The regulation also prohibits illegal docking, overloading, sailing beyond approved areas, night sailing without permission and captains from operating vessels while under the influence of alcohol.