Restoration of ancient lakes in Bagan’s World Heritage Site to mitigate flooding

According to the Department of Archaeology and National Museum (Bagan Branch), eleven ancient lakes in the World Heritage Site in Bagan, part of the Bagan era’s water supply system, are set to undergo excavation and renovation.
The excavation and renovation of Alan Bagan Lake, Mayoe Lake, and Nyaunglaphat Lake have been completed with the Mandalay Region government funding.
These three lakes will now store 458 acre-feet of water, helping prevent flooding and water accumulation within the walls of ancient buildings and surrounding areas.
Furthermore, plans include excavating and renovating 11 additional ancient lakes to prevent flooding of the ancient religious edifices during heavy rains.
The Department of Archaeology and National Museum (Bagan Branch), in collaboration with experts from the University of Marche in Italy, is conducting research on the water supply system and the inflow and outflow channels of water in the heritage zone.
The Myanmar-Italian joint team is currently engaged in field recording and research activities on the irrigation and drainage systems of Wetkyeein Creek, Viewing Mound, and Myakan (Emerald Lake). — ASH/TKO