Excavation, restoration of ancient Bagan reservoirs underway

according to the Department of Archaeology and National Museum (Bagan branch), twelve out of 46 ancient water reservoirs have been excavated in the Bagan Cultural Heritage Zone.
Cyclone Mocha caused floods at ancient religious buildings in Bagan in 2023. The excavation of old water reservoirs and the reconnection of ancient water distribution networks have the potential to prevent floods during the rainy season.
Director U Kyaw Myo Win stated, “Our department conducted detailed assessment surveys of 106 reservoirs between November and December in the financial year 2023-24. Among them, five are larger than ten acres, six are between five and ten acres, and 95 are below five acres”.
The department graded the reservoirs, with 46 graded A and 45 graded B, based on their archaeological, historical, and social importance and usefulness. “We have completed the restoration of 12 A-grade reservoirs in the last financial year. There are nine ongoing projects. Additionally, we will excavate five reservoirs ahead of the monsoon for rural residents near Bagan,” added the director.
The department consulted hydrologist Dr Massimo Sarti from the University of Marche in Italy to consider cultural and environmental heritage, soil preservation, heritage impact assessment, and the authenticity and integrity of the reservoirs. Workers conducted test pit excavations initially and then proceeded with restoration works based on the results.
Collaboration took place with the Ministry of Border Affairs and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Irrigation. The restoration of ancient reservoirs aims to revive old water distribution networks, potentially alleviating water shortages due to climate change. — ASH/NT