Authorities in the Inlay Lake region are collaborating with local communities to replace outdated direct waste disposal systems with bio-septic tanks as part of broader environmental protection and sanitation improvement efforts. The initiative is being carried out by the Department of Rural Development under the Ministry of Cooperatives and Rural Development.

The projects cover 15 villages, including Heya Ywama Village, and also involve communal water supply improvements as well as rehabilitation programs for villages impacted by recent earthquakes. These measures aim to reduce pollution and promote sustainable management of the lake’s ecosystem, which is vital to the region’s biodiversity and local livelihoods.

Union Minister for Cooperatives and Rural Development U Myo Zaw Thein recently visited the project sites to oversee progress and engage with residents. During his visit, he emphasized the importance of community participation in adopting improved sanitation technologies to secure the long-term preservation of Inlay Lake. He also highlighted the need for coordinated efforts among relevant government departments to ensure the success of environmental protection strategies.

In addition to inspecting the infrastructure developments, the Union Minister provided funding to village committees to support various rural development initiatives. These include the Emerald Green Village Project, the establishment of rural economic development funds, and Model Village programs in Nyaungshwe Township aimed at enhancing local quality of life and economic opportunities.

Furthermore, U Myo Zaw Thein visited the Ethnic Affairs and Vocational Training Centre in Ayethaya, where he encouraged participants taking part in a basic sewing course as part of skills development efforts in the area.

The coordinated approach to environmental management and rural development reflects ongoing governmental commitments to balancing ecological conservation with community welfare in Myanmar’s Inlay Lake zone.