The first cruise ship leaving Venice since the pandemic is set to depart on Saturday amid protests by activists demanding that the ship be rerouted out the fragile lagoon, especially Giudecca Canal through the city's historic center. They say the enormous vessels 'weighing over 90,000 tonnes and carrying thousands of passengers at a time' pose environmental and safety risks to the canal and the city.

Another protest is also planned on Saturday by pro-cruise activists whose jobs depend on having thousands of visitors flowing through one of Italy's top tourist destinations.

Italian Premier Mario Draghi's government pledged this winter to get cruise ships out of the Venice lagoon, but it will likely take years to reach that goal.

The government says it is organising bids for a viable alternative outside the lagoon, which should be posted any day now. Still, even an interim alternative route to the Giudecca Canal won't be ready until next year, Italy's Ministry for Infrastructure and Sustainable Mobility said in an email.

"Meanwhile, in 2022, as a temporary solution, a certain number of ships can dock in Marghera, relieving the traffic through Venice,'' the ministry said. Marghera, an industrial port west of Venice that is still within the lagoon, will require lengthening existing piers to accommodate larger vessels as well as dredging a canal on the approach, cruise industry officials say.

Because Marghera is an industrial site, that also means testing the sediment to be dredged for harmful pollutants. Venice has become one of the world's most important cruise destinations over the last two decades, serving as a lucrative turnaround point for 667 cruise ships in 2019 carrying nearly 700,000 passengers, according to the cruise industry trade association, Cruise Lines International.

While some cruise companies have experimented with Trieste to the west or Ravenna to the south as drop-off points for those visiting Venice during the pandemic, industry officials say Venice remains a key port of call for cruises in the Adriatic Sea and eastern Mediterranean.

The passage on Thursday of the MSC Orchestra 'a cruise ship 300 meters (about 985 feet) long that towered over Venice with 16 decks' marked the first time a cruise ship had traveled up the Giudecca Canal since January 2020, before the pandemic shut down the industry.

When the ship sets sail later on Saturday, passengers will enjoy a deck-side view of St&nbsp;Mark's Square, the Doges Palace and the Bridge of Sighs as they exit the lagoon. They also will pass protesters, who have been campaigning since the 2012 Costa Concordia cruise ship disaster off Tuscany that killed 32 people to get the ships out of Venice's lagoon.

Concerns about cruise ships were heightened two years ago this week when the MSC Opera struck a dock and a tourist boat, injuring five people, while maneuvering through the Giudecca Canal.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The first cruise ship leaving Venice since the pandemic is set to depart on Saturday amid protests by activists demanding that the ship be rerouted out the fragile lagoon, especially Giudecca Canal through the city's historic center.

The first cruise ship leaving Venice since the pandemic is set to depart on Saturday amid protests by activists demanding that the ship be rerouted out the fragile lagoon, especially Giudecca Canal through the city's historic center. They say the enormous vessels 'weighing over 90,000 tonnes and carrying thousands of passengers at a time' pose environmental and safety risks to the canal and the city. Another protest is also planned on Saturday by pro-cruise activists whose jobs depend on having thousands of visitors flowing through one of Italy's top tourist destinations. Italian Premier Mario Draghi's government pledged this winter to get cruise ships out of the Venice lagoon, but it will likely take years to reach that goal. The government says it is organising bids for a viable alternative outside the lagoon, which should be posted any day now. Still, even an interim alternative route to the Giudecca Canal won't be ready until next year, Italy's Ministry for Infrastructure and Sustainable Mobility said in an email. "Meanwhile, in 2022, as a temporary solution, a certain number of ships can dock in Marghera, relieving the traffic through Venice,'' the ministry said. Marghera, an industrial port west of Venice that is still within the lagoon, will require lengthening existing piers to accommodate larger vessels as well as dredging a canal on the approach, cruise industry officials say. Because Marghera is an industrial site, that also means testing the sediment to be dredged for harmful pollutants. Venice has become one of the world's most important cruise destinations over the last two decades, serving as a lucrative turnaround point for 667 cruise ships in 2019 carrying nearly 700,000 passengers, according to the cruise industry trade association, Cruise Lines International. While some cruise companies have experimented with Trieste to the west or Ravenna to the south as drop-off points for those visiting Venice during the pandemic, industry officials say Venice remains a key port of call for cruises in the Adriatic Sea and eastern Mediterranean. The passage on Thursday of the MSC Orchestra 'a cruise ship 300 meters (about 985 feet) long that towered over Venice with 16 decks' marked the first time a cruise ship had traveled up the Giudecca Canal since January 2020, before the pandemic shut down the industry. When the ship sets sail later on Saturday, passengers will enjoy a deck-side view of St Mark's Square, the Doges Palace and the Bridge of Sighs as they exit the lagoon. They also will pass protesters, who have been campaigning since the 2012 Costa Concordia cruise ship disaster off Tuscany that killed 32 people to get the ships out of Venice's lagoon. Concerns about cruise ships were heightened two years ago this week when the MSC Opera struck a dock and a tourist boat, injuring five people, while maneuvering through the Giudecca Canal. (With inputs from agencies)

Cruise ships restart in Venice; protesters decry their risks

St Mark's Square in Venice has served as an important landmark for cruise ships.&nbsp;

However, things are now set to change as the Italian government has decided to not let cruise ships sail past St Mark's Square in Venice anymore. All cruises will now be asked to dock at the lagoon city's industrial port.

The decision has been jointly taken by the ministries of infrastructure, culture, tourism and the environment to "protect a cultural and historical heritage that belongs not only to Italy but to the entire world".

Although the government has also clarified that this is a temporary solution. The four ministers have urged people to come up with ideas for creating a cruise ship terminal outside the lagoon.&nbsp;

The government welcoming ideas that will help "give a structural and definitive solution to the problem of large ship transit in Venice".

While the tourist sector was booming due to the increase in cruise ships in the area, the government believes the giant vessels were an eyesore and more importantly, a potential safety hazard for the historic buildings that they passed through so closely.&nbsp;

These cruise ships are also being observed as a threat to the vulnerable ecosystem of the lagoon.

As of now, cruise ships are suspended in Italy due to the coronavirus pandemic, which has taken more than 160,000 lives in the country.

St Mark's Square in Venice has served as an important landmark for cruise ships. However, things are now set to change as the Italian government has decided to not let cruise ships sail past St Mark's Square in Venice anymore.

St Mark's Square in Venice has served as an important landmark for cruise ships. However, things are now set to change as the Italian government has decided to not let cruise ships sail past St Mark's Square in Venice anymore. All cruises will now be asked to dock at the lagoon city's industrial port. The decision has been jointly taken by the ministries of infrastructure, culture, tourism and the environment to "protect a cultural and historical heritage that belongs not only to Italy but to the entire world". Although the government has also clarified that this is a temporary solution. The four ministers have urged people to come up with ideas for creating a cruise ship terminal outside the lagoon. The government welcoming ideas that will help "give a structural and definitive solution to the problem of large ship transit in Venice". While the tourist sector was booming due to the increase in cruise ships in the area, the government believes the giant vessels were an eyesore and more importantly, a potential safety hazard for the historic buildings that they passed through so closely. These cruise ships are also being observed as a threat to the vulnerable ecosystem of the lagoon. As of now, cruise ships are suspended in Italy due to the coronavirus pandemic, which has taken more than 160,000 lives in the country.

Cruise ships banned from St Mark's Square in Venice to protect historical heritage

The famous canals of Venice in Italy nearly dried up on Friday (February 26) as exceptionally low tide took the water out of the famed waterways. Traditional gondolas and boats could be seen almost beached. The water levels reached -48 cm. This created an unusual landscape.

Venice, the city famous for art, architecture and canals has always had fragile balance between low and high tides that create large variations in sea levels. Venice is built on a collection of small islands within a saltwater lagoon off the north-eastern coast of Italy.

Venice's floods, "acqua alta" in Italian, are caused by a combination of factors, exacerbated by climate change -- from rising sea levels and unusually high tides to land subsidence that has caused the ground level of the city to sink.

In December last year, such an 'acqua alta' event had caused flooding in Venice. Images of famous <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/venice-submerged-way-too-much-this-time-348484#st-marks-square-under-water-348477">St Mark's square under water</a> did rounds at that time.

(With Reuters inputs)

The famous canals of Venice in Italy nearly dried up on Friday (February 26) as exceptionally low tide took the water out of the famed waterways. Traditional gondolas and boats could be seen almost beached.

The famous canals of Venice in Italy nearly dried up on Friday (February 26) as exceptionally low tide took the water out of the famed waterways. Traditional gondolas and boats could be seen almost beached. The water levels reached -48 cm. This created an unusual landscape. Venice, the city famous for art, architecture and canals has always had fragile balance between low and high tides that create large variations in sea levels. Venice is built on a collection of small islands within a saltwater lagoon off the north-eastern coast of Italy. Venice's floods, "acqua alta" in Italian, are caused by a combination of factors, exacerbated by climate change -- from rising sea levels and unusually high tides to land subsidence that has caused the ground level of the city to sink. In December last year, such an 'acqua alta' event had caused flooding in Venice. Images of famous St Mark's square under water did rounds at that time. (With Reuters inputs)

Venice: Exceptionally low tide almost dries up the canals

An exceptional low tide left Venice's famous canals almost dry on Friday (February 26). Traditional gondolas and boats could be seen almost beached in the canals as water levels reached a peak of -48 cm, creating an unusual landscape in the lagoon city.

Exceptional low tide leaves canals almost empty in Venice

The period of quarantine could vary, just as it does today as countries all over the world adopt different periods of quarantine to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Do you know, the word quarantine was invented 600 years ago in Venice

Ever wondered how the practice of "quarantine" originated? Turns out, it was first employed 600 years ago when quarantine was used to save people from the bubonic plague.

Venice invented quarantine 600 years ago

With many cinemas closed due to the pandemic, people have grown a custom to watching movies in their own homes. But in the Philippines, a Venice themed open-air mall has introduced float-in cinemas.

Your Story: Philippines introduces float-in cinemas inside a Venice themed open-air mall

Some moviegoers in the Philippine capital, tired of lengthy COVID-19 restrictions, are opting for a taste of Venice, bobbing in front of the big screen in socially distanced gondolas. 
 
Gondoliers in striped uniforms steer and position each boat in an outdoor canal to watch full-length films, a rare chance to visit the cinema after nine months of lockdowns. 
 
"Riding a boat made it a unique experience," patron Violet Gatchalian told Reuters at the Venice Grand Canal-themed shopping mall in Manila. "It`s also one of the first cinemas to reopen so we wanted to try it." 
 
Philippine cinemas have been closed since mid-March, when President Rodrigo Duterte imposed one of the world`s toughest and longest lockdowns. With more than 456,000 coronavirus infections and 8,875 COVID-19 deaths, the Philippines is Southeast Asia`s hardest-hit country after Indonesia. 
 
The government started gradually reopening the economy in June, but most non-essential businesses remain shut - in Manila, the gondola cinema and a drive-through theatre are the only movie venues. 
 
Gondola moviegoers may sit two to a boat, with up to 10 guests per screening and boats kept metres apart. Admission is 500 pesos ($10), roughly the minimum daily wage in the capital. 
 
The float-in cinema aims to lift the spirits of guests and help film industry workers, said Graham Coates, head of Megaworld Lifestyle Malls. 
 
Guests bring their own earphones and listen to audio broadcast at a radio frequency available only to those aboard the gondolas. 
 
Open-air cinemas are seeing a revival in many parts of the world as the leisure industry figures out how to deal with the constraints of the pandemic. 
 
 
 
(Reporting by Adrian Portugal; Writing by Neil Jerome Morales; Editing by William Mallard) 
&nbsp;

Some moviegoers in the Philippine capital, tired of lengthy COVID-19 restrictions, are opting for a taste of Venice, bobbing in front of the big screen in socially distanced gondolas.

Some moviegoers in the Philippine capital, tired of lengthy COVID-19 restrictions, are opting for a taste of Venice, bobbing in front of the big screen in socially distanced gondolas. Gondoliers in striped uniforms steer and position each boat in an outdoor canal to watch full-length films, a rare chance to visit the cinema after nine months of lockdowns. "Riding a boat made it a unique experience," patron Violet Gatchalian told Reuters at the Venice Grand Canal-themed shopping mall in Manila. "It`s also one of the first cinemas to reopen so we wanted to try it." Philippine cinemas have been closed since mid-March, when President Rodrigo Duterte imposed one of the world`s toughest and longest lockdowns. With more than 456,000 coronavirus infections and 8,875 COVID-19 deaths, the Philippines is Southeast Asia`s hardest-hit country after Indonesia. The government started gradually reopening the economy in June, but most non-essential businesses remain shut - in Manila, the gondola cinema and a drive-through theatre are the only movie venues. Gondola moviegoers may sit two to a boat, with up to 10 guests per screening and boats kept metres apart. Admission is 500 pesos ($10), roughly the minimum daily wage in the capital. The float-in cinema aims to lift the spirits of guests and help film industry workers, said Graham Coates, head of Megaworld Lifestyle Malls. Guests bring their own earphones and listen to audio broadcast at a radio frequency available only to those aboard the gondolas. Open-air cinemas are seeing a revival in many parts of the world as the leisure industry figures out how to deal with the constraints of the pandemic. (Reporting by Adrian Portugal; Writing by Neil Jerome Morales; Editing by William Mallard)

Movie by gondola: Philippine cinema offers Venice-themed pandemic escape

Philippine cinema offers Venice-themed movie watching experience

It's a nativity scene like no other, bringing the magic of Christmas to the famous lagoon city, with its stunning silhouette as a backdrop. Baby Jesus can be seen emerging from the waters, surrounded by a floating Joseph and Mary under the sunrise near the island of Burano, in the northern lagoon of Venice. The artwork, created by Francesco Orazio, a greengrocer with an artistic bent, was completed on Tuesday (December 15) in an open stretch of water, without hindering navigation.

Floating nativity scene brings Christmas to Venice lagoon 

Venice submerged, way too much this time

The Venice Film Festival is the first COVID-era international film festival. The critics, filmmakers, and actors cheered organizers for having dared to hold the festival amid a pandemic and demonstrating how to go to the movies again, safely.

Venice film festival 2020: First COVID-era film festival a hit

Stars of "The World to Come" lit up the Venice Film Festival red carpet on Sunday (September 6) evening as they attended the highly anticipated movie's world premiere.

'The World to Come' cast, Oliver Stone and Iran's Majid Majidi walk Venice red carpet

Media waited in line on Wednesday morning (September 2) as temperature checks were carried out on everyone before entering for a press screening on the day the Venice Film Festival officially opens.

Temperature checks and social distancing the norm at this year's Venice Film Festival

Just one day to go before the start of the world's first real-life film festival in Venice but will anyone actually be coming? The 77th edition of the film festival is going ahead with strict COVID regulations. No public at the red carpet, restricted numbers in the screenings with facial coverings and social distancing all being strictly adhered to.

The stage is set but will anyone come? Venice awaits start of film festival

Lockdown has affected people, industries and countries, in totality, in various different ways. One such industry is that of the&nbsp;gondoliers in Venice who are facing a very different problem than the rest of the world.

A gondola is a boat ride which is very popular for the tourists visiting&nbsp;Venice; the ride is worldwide famous. Usually, a gondola accommodates six people. However, due to the new 'unforeseen' circumstances, the organisers have decided to further impose new restrictions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/caged-italian-coastguard-help-giant-sperm-whale-caught-in-illegal-fishing-net-314709">Have a look|&nbsp;Caged: Italian coastguard help giant sperm whale caught in illegal fishing net</a>

Venice's&nbsp;Gondola Association has decided to limit the visitors on boat to five, instead of six. The reason behind this is not social distancing, but the extra weight that the tourists seem to have gained during the worldwide lockdown.

"Over the last 10 years or so, tourists weigh more -- and rather than having them step on a scale before they get on, we are limiting the number," Andrea Balbi, the president of Venice's Gondola Association told CNN.

The organisers believe that the average weight of tourists has increased significantly and that makes it harder for the gondoliers to ferry the tourists around the Grand Canal without the risk of taking on water.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italy-returns-bataclans-stolen-banksy-artwork-314110">Also watch|&nbsp;Italy returns Bataclan’s stolen Banksy artwork</a>

"From some countries, it's like bombs loading on and when (the boat) is fully loaded, the hull sinks and water enters,"&nbsp;Raoul Roveratto, president of the Association of Substitute Gondoliers said to a local newspaper. "Going forward with over half a ton of meat on board is dangerous," he continued.

The change will be for the slim boats that operate on the small canals. However, the maximum capacity on the&nbsp;larger "da parada" gondolas, has also been reduced from 14 to 12.

The gondola and the tourism industry in Italy have had to take a massive hit due to the strict nationwide lockdown that was imposed in Italy after the situation became gravely dangerous few months back.

Lockdown has affected people, industries and countries, in totality, in various different ways. One such industry is that of the gondoliers in Venice who are facing a very different problem than the rest of the world.

Lockdown has affected people, industries and countries, in totality, in various different ways. One such industry is that of the gondoliers in Venice who are facing a very different problem than the rest of the world. A gondola is a boat ride which is very popular for the tourists visiting Venice; the ride is worldwide famous. Usually, a gondola accommodates six people. However, due to the new 'unforeseen' circumstances, the organisers have decided to further impose new restrictions. Have a look| Caged: Italian coastguard help giant sperm whale caught in illegal fishing net Venice's Gondola Association has decided to limit the visitors on boat to five, instead of six. The reason behind this is not social distancing, but the extra weight that the tourists seem to have gained during the worldwide lockdown. "Over the last 10 years or so, tourists weigh more -- and rather than having them step on a scale before they get on, we are limiting the number," Andrea Balbi, the president of Venice's Gondola Association told CNN. The organisers believe that the average weight of tourists has increased significantly and that makes it harder for the gondoliers to ferry the tourists around the Grand Canal without the risk of taking on water. Also watch| Italy returns Bataclan’s stolen Banksy artwork "From some countries, it's like bombs loading on and when (the boat) is fully loaded, the hull sinks and water enters," Raoul Roveratto, president of the Association of Substitute Gondoliers said to a local newspaper. "Going forward with over half a ton of meat on board is dangerous," he continued. The change will be for the slim boats that operate on the small canals. However, the maximum capacity on the larger "da parada" gondolas, has also been reduced from 14 to 12. The gondola and the tourism industry in Italy have had to take a massive hit due to the strict nationwide lockdown that was imposed in Italy after the situation became gravely dangerous few months back.

'It's like bombs loading on': Venice's gondoliers complain tourists gained weight in lockdown

Venice tested its giant mobile flood barriers in a partly ceremonial operation aimed at showing the strength of its defences after disastrous flooding in November raised questions about the future of the fragile lagoon city.

Flood defence system Mose set to hold back the seas of Venice

Venetian protesters formed a human chain along one of the city's iconic canals on Saturday (June 13), demanding responsible tourism in the post-coronavirus period.

Italy: Venetians protest against mass tourism

The Venice Film Festival will go ahead as scheduled at the beginning of September, Luca Zaia, the governor of the region around the Italian city said on Sunday (May 24) as the spread of the new coronavirus in the country slows.

Venice Film Festival set for September , local governor says

The lagoon city of Venice welcomed back tourists on a sunny Sunday (May 24) after the easing of lockdown restrictions.

Italian tourists return to Venice

The shutdown across the world over coronavirus concerns has precipitated an unexpected side-effect. The canals and lakes in Venice have become so still that dolphins and swans have returned.

Boats generally bring sediment to the surface, stopping the fauna to make an appearance. But since Italy -- one of the most affected countries with Italy with over 2,500 deaths and 31,500 cases &nbsp;-- has been in a lockdown, the sediment has settled at the bottom making the surface clearer. Boats frequenting the waters kick up sediment, causing the water to look dirty.

As a result, the usually murky waterways are clear enough to see the schools of fish under the water. White swans are also roaming the canals.

A dolphin was also filmed swimming in the port of Cagliari, one of the largest seaports in Italy.

People took to Twitter to marvel at this side-effect. One person posted: "One thing that gives me hope is how quickly mother nature is responding/recovering. Water clear in Venice canals and swans back. Dolphins on coasts. More birds around with less cars. Huge drop in pollution. Big lesson for us all. We can save our planet if we act NOW."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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✅ Acqua pulita a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Venezia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Venezia</a> con i pesci 🐠 che si tornano a vedere 
✅ Un cigno 🦢 sul Naviglio a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Milano?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Milano</a> 
✅ un delfino 🐬 nel porto di <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cagliari?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cagliari</a> 
 
Tornare a inquinare sarebbe un delitto: sfruttiamo questa scia per ripensare a come sviluppare la società in armonia con la natura <a href="https://t.co/dH0PLqm4Q1">pic.twitter.com/dH0PLqm4Q1</a>
— Roberto Dupplicato (@duppli) <a href="https://twitter.com/duppli/status/1239491423243821058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Air quality in Venice has also improved since the lockdown.

A similar effect was observed in China. Since the lockdown and restricted movement of people throughout the country, there has been a sustained drop in air pollution. Experts have even said the lockdown has saved more lives by controlling pollution than preventing infection.

Also read: Coronavirus lockdown in China has saved more lives by controlling pollution than preventing infection

The shutdown across the world over coronavirus concerns has precipitated an unexpected side-effect. The canals and lakes in Venice have become so still that dolphins and swans have returned.

Boats generally bring sediment to the surface, stopping the fauna to make an appearance. But since Italy -- one of the most affected countries with Italy with over 2,500 deaths and 31,500 cases &nbsp;-- has been in a lockdown, the sediment has settled at the bottom making the surface clearer. Boats frequenting the waters kick up sediment, causing the water to look dirty.

As a result, the usually murky waterways are clear enough to see the schools of fish under the water. White swans are also roaming the canals.

A dolphin was also filmed swimming in the port of Cagliari, one of the largest seaports in Italy.

People took to Twitter to marvel at this side-effect. One person posted: "One thing that gives me hope is how quickly mother nature is responding/recovering. Water clear in Venice canals and swans back. Dolphins on coasts. More birds around with less cars. Huge drop in pollution. Big lesson for us all. We can save our planet if we act NOW."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
✅ Acqua pulita a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Venezia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Venezia</a> con i pesci 🐠 che si tornano a vedere 
✅ Un cigno 🦢 sul Naviglio a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Milano?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Milano</a> 
✅ un delfino 🐬 nel porto di <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cagliari?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cagliari</a> 
 
Tornare a inquinare sarebbe un delitto: sfruttiamo questa scia per ripensare a come sviluppare la società in armonia con la natura <a href="https://t.co/dH0PLqm4Q1">pic.twitter.com/dH0PLqm4Q1</a>
— Roberto Dupplicato (@duppli) <a href="https://twitter.com/duppli/status/1239491423243821058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Air quality in Venice has also improved since the lockdown.

A similar effect was observed in China. Since the lockdown and restricted movement of people throughout the country, there has been a sustained drop in air pollution. Experts have even said the lockdown has saved more lives by controlling pollution than preventing infection.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-lockdown-in-china-has-saved-more-lives-by-controlling-pollution-than-preventing-infection-287195">Also read: Coronavirus lockdown in China has saved more lives by controlling pollution than preventing infection</a>

The shutdown across the world over coronavirus concerns has precipitated an unexpected side-effect. The canals and lakes in Venice have become so still that dolphins and swans have returned.

The shutdown across the world over coronavirus concerns has precipitated an unexpected side-effect. The canals and lakes in Venice have become so still that dolphins and swans have returned. Boats generally bring sediment to the surface, stopping the fauna to make an appearance. But since Italy -- one of the most affected countries with Italy with over 2,500 deaths and 31,500 cases -- has been in a lockdown, the sediment has settled at the bottom making the surface clearer. Boats frequenting the waters kick up sediment, causing the water to look dirty. As a result, the usually murky waterways are clear enough to see the schools of fish under the water. White swans are also roaming the canals. A dolphin was also filmed swimming in the port of Cagliari, one of the largest seaports in Italy. People took to Twitter to marvel at this side-effect. One person posted: "One thing that gives me hope is how quickly mother nature is responding/recovering. Water clear in Venice canals and swans back. Dolphins on coasts. More birds around with less cars. Huge drop in pollution. Big lesson for us all. We can save our planet if we act NOW." ✅ Acqua pulita a #Venezia con i pesci 🐠 che si tornano a vedere ✅ Un cigno 🦢 sul Naviglio a #Milano ✅ un delfino 🐬 nel porto di #Cagliari Tornare a inquinare sarebbe un delitto: sfruttiamo questa scia per ripensare a come sviluppare la società in armonia con la natura pic.twitter.com/dH0PLqm4Q1 — Roberto Dupplicato (@duppli) March 16, 2020 × Air quality in Venice has also improved since the lockdown. A similar effect was observed in China. Since the lockdown and restricted movement of people throughout the country, there has been a sustained drop in air pollution. Experts have even said the lockdown has saved more lives by controlling pollution than preventing infection. Also read: Coronavirus lockdown in China has saved more lives by controlling pollution than preventing infection The shutdown across the world over coronavirus concerns has precipitated an unexpected side-effect. The canals and lakes in Venice have become so still that dolphins and swans have returned. Boats generally bring sediment to the surface, stopping the fauna to make an appearance. But since Italy -- one of the most affected countries with Italy with over 2,500 deaths and 31,500 cases -- has been in a lockdown, the sediment has settled at the bottom making the surface clearer. Boats frequenting the waters kick up sediment, causing the water to look dirty. As a result, the usually murky waterways are clear enough to see the schools of fish under the water. White swans are also roaming the canals. A dolphin was also filmed swimming in the port of Cagliari, one of the largest seaports in Italy. People took to Twitter to marvel at this side-effect. One person posted: "One thing that gives me hope is how quickly mother nature is responding/recovering. Water clear in Venice canals and swans back. Dolphins on coasts. More birds around with less cars. Huge drop in pollution. Big lesson for us all. We can save our planet if we act NOW." ✅ Acqua pulita a #Venezia con i pesci 🐠 che si tornano a vedere ✅ Un cigno 🦢 sul Naviglio a #Milano ✅ un delfino 🐬 nel porto di #Cagliari Tornare a inquinare sarebbe un delitto: sfruttiamo questa scia per ripensare a come sviluppare la società in armonia con la natura pic.twitter.com/dH0PLqm4Q1 — Roberto Dupplicato (@duppli) March 16, 2020 × Air quality in Venice has also improved since the lockdown. A similar effect was observed in China. Since the lockdown and restricted movement of people throughout the country, there has been a sustained drop in air pollution. Experts have even said the lockdown has saved more lives by controlling pollution than preventing infection. Also read: Coronavirus lockdown in China has saved more lives by controlling pollution than preventing infection

Canals in Venice clear up as coronavirus shuts down tourism, waterways

In a drastic new attempt to try to contain a rapidly growing outbreak of coronavirus, Italy on Sunday announced a virtual lockdown that will affect more than 16 million people in Milan and Venice until April 3.

In a drastic new attempt to try to contain a rapidly growing outbreak of coronavirus, Italy on Sunday announced a virtual lockdown that will affect more than 16 million people in Milan and Venice until April 3. The draft decree signed by Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte says 'those who violated the measures could be jailed'. Conte signed the decree in the early hours of Sunday, enacting forced quarantine for the region of Lombardy – home to more than 10 million people and the financial capital, Milan – and 14 other provinces, totalling around 16 million residents. Thousands of people left Lombardy on Saturday night, before the decree was made official, crowding the motorways and train stations in the region, which will be locked down until 3 April. Watch | 5 suspected cases of Covid-19 in Kerala × Second-worst affected after China, Italy has reported 233 deaths and 5,883 positive cases so far. In all the areas covered by the decree, including towns in the northern regions of Emilia-Romagna, Veneto and Piedmont, schools will be closed at least until 3 April, as will museums, gyms and swimming pools. Leave is cancelled for all healthcare workers. So far the decree has been signed by the prime minister, but it will not be an official executive order until the council of ministers approves it. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: Italy government's lockdown to affect 16 million in north

Hundreds of revellers lined the narrow alleys and bridges to admire a flotilla of boats carrying spectacularly dressed participants on the first full day of the Venice Carnival on Sunday (February 9).

Venice comes alive with colourful characters in carnival boat parade

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Water levels rose in Venice on Saturday, The high tide, known as acqua alta hit the city just weeks after the city suffered worst flooding in more than 50 years.

High tides hit Venice weeks after floods

The streets were flooded and the strong wind led to waves in St Mark’s Square. High tides hit Venice weeks after floods led Damage estimated at $1.11 billion.

High tides hit Venice weeks after floods; Damage estimated at $1.11 billion

Venetians gave the cold shoulder to the fifth vote in 40 years to break away from sister city Mestre on the Italian mainland, with little expectation of a parting of the ways.

By 1800 GMT only 18.6 per cent&nbsp;of 206,553 potential voters had showed up at the polls, a long way short of the 50 per cent&nbsp;required by 2200 GMT for the referendum to be valid.

Venice and Mestre became a single administration in 1926 when Mestre's petrochemical plant was being built. At the time, the population of Venice and its 11 islands was roughly six times that of nearby Mestre.

The situation reversed in the following decades as new factories created jobs in Mestre while Venetians began to leave a city where life was rendered increasingly hard by mass tourism and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emergency-declared-in-venice-following-severe-floods-262727">frequent flooding</a>.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venice-braces-for-tough-day-as-another-very-high-tide-looms-262740">Venice</a> and the islands now have 91,000 residents against Mestre's 177,000.

The latest vote comes soon after Venice was devastated by the second-highest flooding on record, prompting speculation in some quarters that the yes camp could draw strength from the argument that a more local administration would be better placed to solve Venice's very specific problems.

In previous votes, in 1979, 1989, 1994 and 2003, the bulk of the votes in favour of a split had come from the mainland.

Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro invited residents to abstain and warned that the city would be mired for years in bureaucracy and lawsuits on the division of assets were the region to be divided into two separate municipalities.

Venetians gave the cold shoulder to the fifth vote in 40 years to break away from sister city Mestre on the Italian mainland, with little expectation of a parting of the ways.

Venetians gave the cold shoulder to the fifth vote in 40 years to break away from sister city Mestre on the Italian mainland, with little expectation of a parting of the ways. By 1800 GMT only 18.6 per cent of 206,553 potential voters had showed up at the polls, a long way short of the 50 per cent required by 2200 GMT for the referendum to be valid. Venice and Mestre became a single administration in 1926 when Mestre's petrochemical plant was being built. At the time, the population of Venice and its 11 islands was roughly six times that of nearby Mestre. The situation reversed in the following decades as new factories created jobs in Mestre while Venetians began to leave a city where life was rendered increasingly hard by mass tourism and frequent flooding. Venice and the islands now have 91,000 residents against Mestre's 177,000. The latest vote comes soon after Venice was devastated by the second-highest flooding on record, prompting speculation in some quarters that the yes camp could draw strength from the argument that a more local administration would be better placed to solve Venice's very specific problems. In previous votes, in 1979, 1989, 1994 and 2003, the bulk of the votes in favour of a split had come from the mainland. Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro invited residents to abstain and warned that the city would be mired for years in bureaucracy and lawsuits on the division of assets were the region to be divided into two separate municipalities.

Venetians reject referendum on splitting from Mestre

Worst month for high tides in Venice since 1872. Watch video to know more.

Worst month for high tides in Venice since 1872

Following heavy flooding in less than a week, Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte declared a state of emergency in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inundated-venice-braced-for-more-flooding-strong-winds-262599">Venice</a>. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/worst-floods-in-50-years-bring-venice-on-its-knees-262121">In Pictures: Worst floods in 50-years bring 'Venice on its knees'</a>

The PM said that 20 million euros (22 million US dollars) were allocated to the city and its nearby areas affected by the floods to tackle the devastation.&nbsp;

According to UNESCO, more than 85 per cent of the city was under water when two high water tides flooded Venice this week.&nbsp;

The third spell of major flooding is also expected to hit Venice in less than a week on Sunday. The forecast for today predicts high water of 160 centimetres (over five feet) for just after midday, lower than Tuesday's 187 centimetres, the highest level in half a century.&nbsp;

The new warning comes after a brief respite on Saturday with the reopening of iconic St Mark's Square.&nbsp;

UNESCO also added that churches, homes and schools were submerged in the city.&nbsp;

Two people die in a small island in Venice's lagoon and the city witnessed severe damage, including the iconic Saint Mark's Basilica.&nbsp;

Italian football team travelled to Venice on Saturday to show solidarity with the city.&nbsp;

"On behalf of the whole team, we stand close to the city of Venice," said Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.&nbsp;

Italy's Cultural Minister Dario Franceschini has said that the cost of repairing Venice will be "huge" where more than 50 churches have suffered damages.

Compensation of up to 5,000 euros will be given on an immediate basis to residents whose houses have been damaged, while restaurant and shop owners can claim up to 20,000 euros now and apply for more later.&nbsp;

Following heavy flooding in less than a week, Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte declared a state of emergency in Venice. In Pictures: Worst floods in 50-years bring 'Venice on its knees' The PM said that 20 million euros (22 million US dollars) were allocated to the city and its nearby areas affected by the floods to tackle the devastation.

Following heavy flooding in less than a week, Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte declared a state of emergency in Venice. In Pictures: Worst floods in 50-years bring 'Venice on its knees' The PM said that 20 million euros (22 million US dollars) were allocated to the city and its nearby areas affected by the floods to tackle the devastation. According to UNESCO, more than 85 per cent of the city was under water when two high water tides flooded Venice this week. The third spell of major flooding is also expected to hit Venice in less than a week on Sunday. The forecast for today predicts high water of 160 centimetres (over five feet) for just after midday, lower than Tuesday's 187 centimetres, the highest level in half a century. The new warning comes after a brief respite on Saturday with the reopening of iconic St Mark's Square. UNESCO also added that churches, homes and schools were submerged in the city. Two people die in a small island in Venice's lagoon and the city witnessed severe damage, including the iconic Saint Mark's Basilica. Italian football team travelled to Venice on Saturday to show solidarity with the city. "On behalf of the whole team, we stand close to the city of Venice," said Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Italy's Cultural Minister Dario Franceschini has said that the cost of repairing Venice will be "huge" where more than 50 churches have suffered damages. Compensation of up to 5,000 euros will be given on an immediate basis to residents whose houses have been damaged, while restaurant and shop owners can claim up to 20,000 euros now and apply for more later.

Emergency declared in Venice following severe floods

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