Tour buses stress Bagan

BAGAN Authorities in charge of the Bagan temple complex say they have banned tour buses and other heavy vehicles from passing through the Tharapa Gate in order to protect the ancient and vulnerable structure.
According to an Irrawaddy news report, the Department of Archaeology, National Museums and Libraries deputy general director, Thein Lwin, said the volume of heavy goods and tour bus traffic is causing substantial damage to the structure.
“Tharapa Gate is centuries old. It has suffered from earthquakes, but these days the passage of vehicles causes stress and cracks to walls and foundations. That’s why our department has banned heavy traffic.”
The road that passes through the gate is the main link between the old and new Bagan towns and the village of Nyaung U. Heavy vehicles will now be required to use Anawrahta Road instead.
inside no 1The ban was discussed in detail at a 27 February meeting on developing the nomination of Bagan to apply for UNESCO World Heritage site recognition.
It became law, 1 March, and initially impacts on heavy vehicles but could ultimately include all motorised vehicles.
The gate requires urgent restoration and work on load-bearing structures and foundations. It will require additional concrete supports, but the work must be completed in such a way as not to compromise the appearance of the gate.
The department also plans to add spotlights at night so travellers can take photos.
The Ministry of Culture has sought help from UNESCO and JICA to repair the gate.
The Tharapa Gate, on the eastern wall, is the only one left of 12 gates of the walled city, which King Pyinbya established in 849. The gate is interesting because it is the only example ancient secular architecture left.
In front of the gate are two massive shrines with images of the Mahagiri (“Great Mountain”) nats, the brother Maung Tinde on the left, the sister Thonbanhla on the right.

sourced:ttrweekly.com