During this period, inspectors throughout the nation will check enterprises that build, maintain and repair boats lighter than five tonnes.

"We will check on facilities and equipment at boatyards, business licences and professional skills of employees according to the regulations of the Law on Domestic Waterway Traffic, said Le Van Mao, representative of the Viet Nam Inland Waterway Administration.

He said the inspections would be jointly conducted by the administration, the Viet Nam Registration Department and Waterway Traffic Police.

Figures from the Viet Nam Inland Waterway Administration reveal that 97 waterway accidents in the first six months of this year killed 110 people and injured another 10. A total of 99 vessels were damaged or sunk, causing total losses of VND3.3 billion (US$183,000).

In the first half of last year, 161 accidents were reported, but the number of deaths was slightly lower at 103 - and the number of those injured was 12.

Statistics show that most accidents were caused by those who broke waterway traffic regulations. Most lacked operational experience or did not have business licences.

Statistics in 2008 showed Viet Nam had more than 444,100 domestic waterway vehicles, but only 62,400 were registered for operation.

"Inspection teams will be set up in localities to carry out checks under the supervision of the municipal Department of Transport inspectors," said Mao.

"Those found not to have the necessary licences or who violate regulations will be suspended and handed over to local traffic inspectors for further punishment," Mao said.