To protect the underwater cities from man-made damages, the underwater reserve was established in 2002. Previously, the local fishing industry, especially with its huge fishing net, had seriously damaged the underwater buildings.

The protected region is 1,000 meters long from east to west, and 900 meters wide from north to west, covering the entire underwater cities as well a neighboring village. The local government placed some buoys (with entrance prohbition signs on them) around the protected region. Also, inside the reserve and the neighboring areas, fishing is prohibited, and the boats passing by must slow down.

After the reserve was established, the local government also organized experts to research the further protection and exploration of the relics.

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