Myanmar lake named biosphere reserve

YANGON, 2 August 2017: Myanmar’s efforts to gain UNESCO recognition for natural and heritage sites sees the country’s largest freshwater lake designated a “Biosphere Reserve”.

It joins Inle Lake, in Shan State, which gained the same status from UNESCO in 2015.

Myanmar Tourism Marketing said the latest recognition would encourage efforts to gain World Heritage status for a number of sites around the country. Read more

Bill to protect Inle Lake

SHAN STATE, 9 June 2017: To preserve Myanmar’s second largest freshwater lake, a bill for the environmental conservation of Inle Lake will be submitted to parliament.

Myanmar Times reported there have been five rounds of discussions about the bill with many stakeholders participating.

The bill was drawn up in October last year to combat a range of environmental problems, including the deterioration of the lake in terms of water  quality and surface area. Read more

Lessons from Inle Lake boaties

BANGKOK, 16 May 2017: They make it look so easy, but the most difficult feats look that way whenever the well practiced demonstrate precision skills.

Up front on the still surface of an Inle Lake channel, skirted by floating gardens, a single oarsman stands on one leg as straight as a ramrod on the tiny stern of his wooden boat. It is as if he is imitating a nearby white crane. Both are seeking clear vision over the tall grass to identify the watery path home. Read more

Hanoi upgrades walking streets

HANOI, 6 March 2017: Hanoi’s authorities plan to upgrade pedestrian streets and offer more facilities to upgrade the city’s image for locals and visitors.

Local media reported the city’s People’s Committee has implemented measures to improve the pedestrian streets around Hoan Kiem (Returned Sword) Lake.

Also, public drinking water stations will be installed around the lake for the first time to serve locals and tourists. Read more