14 March
The road to Alaungdaw Kathapa Cave in Yinmabin Township, Sagaing Region, is to be upgraded to a concrete road following the pilgrimage season, said U Htee Maung, associated secretary of the Alaungdaw Kathapa Board of Trustees.
The pilgrimage to Alaungdaw Kathapa Pagoda occurs annually from January to April and is crowded with pilgrims coming from across the country.
Although the current road was maintained at a cost of K40 million per year, the road is not convenient for travellers. The seven mile road from Gonenyinpin to Nathtake was upgraded to a concrete road at a cost of K270 million last year.
Arrangements have been made to upgraded the section of the road from Kapaingpwint to Gonenyin, from Nathtake to Thabatesayychaung and from Thabatesayychaung to Shukhinthar, along with a reinforced concrete bridge, at a cost of K400 million.
There are 70 elephants at the base camp to transport pilgrims who visit Alaungdaw Kathapa Cave, and the trip is governed by monks from Pale, Salingyi, Kanni and Yinmabin townships and trustees from Alaungdaw Kathapa pagoda.
—Min Htet Aung (Translated by La Wonn)
