THE famed temples of Bagan could become Myanmar’s second UNESCO World Heritage site if the Ministry of Culture’s efforts pay off.
Ministry sources told TTG Asia e-Daily that discussions have already been held with UNESCO representatives.
Kyaw Oo Lwin, director general of the department of archaeology at the ministry, said: “I am confident that the sight will be granted (World Heritage) status and we are working with experts to ensure that it is ready to be included.
“However, there are many challenges to overcome and it is a very long process, likely to take about four years,” he added.
Some of those challenges include making a record of all of the pagodas at Bagan and enforcing stricter heritage laws. He said it is too early to discuss what developments would take place if Bagan is included.
According to reports, 200,000 people visited the destination in 2013, up from 160,000 the year before.
Three ancient Pyu cities in Myanmar were granted World Heritage status earlier this year.
