U Bein Bridge built in the 1850s needs renovation. Photo: ATK
WITH the advice of the Myanmar Architect Council, U Bein Bridge, which is a major tourist draw in Mandalay, will be renovated starting next month, said U Myo Thit, Mandalay Region Minister for Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation.
The two German experts invited by the MAC recently arrived in Myanmar to take part in the renovation project. According to the new scheme, old wood will be replaced with new teakwood, which will be done without damaging the bridge’s original features, he said.
U Myo Thit explained the suspension of the renovation of the bridge in the past,
saying that the authorities temporarily stopped the repair of the bridge while they were waiting for suggestions from the Myanmar Architect Council for the project.
In cooperation with the Department of Archaeology and the National Museum (Mandalay), the project will be implemented with the use of funds contributed by the Myanmar Teak Wood Company.
Located in Amarapura Township in Mandalay Region, the 1.2 kilometer-long U Bein Bridge was built in the 1850s over the Taungthaman Lake using traditional methods. It has become one of the most scenic places in Amarapura, with beautiful landscapes and authentic social life of the residents.
— Aung Thant Khaing