CNI News
16 January 2025
Locals were worried that battles would break out in the Bagan region after the announcement by Nyaung U Township PDF that it would wage battles in the Bagan-Nyaung U region, Mandalay Region, which is a World Cultural Heritage Site, because they have to live on tourists, locals told CNI News.
Nyaung U PDF (Bagan Ogre Force) announced on 8th January 2025 that it would wage battles in the Bagan-Nyaung U region, Mandalay Region.
Locals have to be living on tourists who visit Bagan pagodas, they don't want that battles will take place in the Bagna-Nyaung U region, a local said CNI News.
" We, locals, have to live on tourists who visit the pagodas here. We don't want battles will take place in this region because it's an ancient heritage site. Shop owners and children here earn income only when tourists and pilgrims come here. There are almost no other businesses here. If any ancient heritage is damaged, the whole world will know it. It goes without saying that consequences will be very bad if battles break out here." he said.
It would carry out military operations so as not to damage ancient pagodas and cultural heritages and the main military targets would be attacked by well-trained fighters, said the Nyaung U PDF.
The operation would be carried out in cooperation with the ally forces from Myingyan, Taungtha, Natogyi, Kyaukpadaung and Chauk Townships, said the PDF.
If battles were waged, the pagodas and temples would be damaged and battles should not be waged there, pointed out Col. Khun Okkar, an EAO leader.
If battles were launched in the Bagan-Nyaung U region, ancient pagodas and all tourism services in the Bagan region could be affected, U Zwe Htet,a Bagan travel service operator told CNI News.
" If battles break out here in Bagan, it won't be convenient for us because we live on tourists. If battles break out, ancient pagodas can be affected because of fire arms or heavy weapons. All the tourism services could be affected. Lacquerware, hotel and E-bike rental businesses all will be affected." he said.
As soon as battles started, ancient pagodas could be totally damaged and irreplaceable losses could arise; both organizations should not wars that cause a lot of losses and should find an answer to make peace, pointed out tourism entrepreneurs.
43 percent of Myanmar's population are experiencing conflicts due to armed conflicts and nearly 20 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance in 2025, announced the UNOCHA.
