Yangon needs to take care of heritage

The Japan International Cooperation Agency advises Myanmar authorities to stay well clear of historical buildings in Yangon when developing a mass transport system for the city.
Local media quoted JICA team leader, Shinji Yo Okusawoka, as saying that the authorities should take utmost care with historical buildings.
“There are many tourist attractions in Yangon—such as pagodas, monasteries, mosques and churches—that earn foreign income for the state. Moreover, the religious buildings are a crucial component of daily life,” he said.
He added: “When drawing up plans, we have to consider the situation of the natural environment and social surroundings. If the transport project does not cause damage to housing and the natural environment, people will accept it and then the project can go ahead.”
Yangon Urban Transport Plan (YUTRA) will cost US$25 billion to implement if it approved. The country has the opportunity to develop a system almost from scratch and learn from mistakes other countries made.
Like its neighbours rail and road transport do not converge on the same hubs a point that will be taken up with the YUTRA to ensure there are convenient interchanges.
JICA is partnering with the Yangon regional government to implement the project, which involves a circle train network as well as roads and a commuter bus system create a single system for commuters.
The Yangon City Development Committee announced in May 1996 that there were 189 historical heritage buildings in Yangon. In October last year, World Monument Watch confirmed 89 historical buildings located in downtown Yangon would be designated cultural heritage sites this year.

Sourced: TravelDailyNews