Mekong delta Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Mekong delta - Essay Example In 1802, it became part of French colony and became part of Vietnam when it gained independence from France (Brocheux, 1995). Mekong delta is 39000 km in area. It was initially a forest area and marshland having diverse landscape with mountains, highland and plain region. The marshland makes it very fertile land. It has moderate climate. Due to its low lying area, it is susceptible to flash floods. Lunar new year and mid autumn festival are major cultural events. During the festival, children float lighted candles on skiffs on the river. The multicultural society comprises of Vietnamese, Khmer, Chinese, Cambodians and Cham tribe. The main religions are Buddhism, Catholicism, Cao Dai, Hoa Hao and Islam (vietscape.com, 2004). Agriculture is major source of income for the people. Rice is major agricultural crop followed by fruits and vegetables. It is second largest producer and exporter of rice in the world. Acquaculture is another industry which facilitates export of fish like shrimps, cat fish etc. In recent times, tourism has also emerged as important industry. Boats and ferries are major transport systems across the provinces and cities. Bus, light and heavy vehicles are used on the roadways along with motorbikes, and bicycles. Recently a cable stayed bridge was constructed that connects Long province with Can Tho city. The bridge is expected to reduce the reliance on ferries for commutation. Some of the provinces of Mekong are also connected by air-flight. Mekong Delta has two main floating markets: Cai Rang and Phong Dien, where villagers bring their produce like vegetables, fruits, fish etc. on the boats. All its businesses are conducted on the banks. They have bamboo houses and cultivate fisheries under them. Goods are bought by local traders who sell them in the big cities at great profit. It also has floating