Local sources report that efforts are underway to enhance the trail leading to the snow-capped mountains in Kachin State to promote eco-tourism.
Mounts Phonkanrazi and Phonrinrazi, located in PutaO Township, are well-known destinations for both alpinists and adventurers. Along the Upper Sangong-Lonnadam-Ziyadam road, which connects to these mountains, reside 1,139 residents across eight villages. Improving this road infrastructure not only aims to attract more visitors to the area but also promises benefits for the local communities.
On 17 February, Kachin State Chief Minister U Khet Htein Nan conducted an inspection to evaluate the progress of the road upgrade.
Funding for the upgrade, spanning a length of 24 miles and seven furlongs, comes from the Union, Ministry of Border Affairs, and Kachin State government.
The improvement efforts involve paving the 34-foot-wide gravel road, widening it by clearing mountains, and constructing reinforced concrete bridges.
Currently, the Department of Highways’ bridge construction team is working on a 240-foot-long reinforced concrete bridge across Mular Creek.
PutaO is home to three majestic icy peaks: Phangranrazi (14,200 feet), Phonrinrazi (14,000 feet), and Phonkanrazi (11,920 feet). Journeys from PutaO to these mountains take 14 days to Phangranrazi, 13 nights and 14 days to Phonyinrazi, and 10 days to Phonkanrazi. The former two present more challenges, offering exhilarating adventures. — TWA/NT
