Illegal gold mining increases in ASEAN-recognized Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary

Illegal gold mining increases in ASEAN-recognized Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary
An illegal mining site seen in Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary
An illegal mining site seen in Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary
Published 17 June 2021
Ma Pe Nyein

Illegal gold mining is increasing these days in Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary recognized as an ASEAN heritage park in Sagaing Region, according to local sources.  

Gold mining has illegally been taking place upstream of Nampheelin Creek in the sanctuary, local people said.

“We have been seeing illegal gold mining at the edge of Nampheelin Creek in the Htamanthi jungle but gradually, they are entering the sanctuary. In the past there were a few cases. Since 2014, gold mining had disappeared due to patrolling and effective action in the sanctuary. But as of March this year, gold mining has increased. Now there are about 70 illegal mining sites. As waste soil and water after gold mining are being released into the creek, we are concerned about damage,” said a local villager.

Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary in upper Sagaing Region was recognized as an ASEAN Heritage Park-AHP after the 15th ASEAN environmental conservation ministers’ meeting held in Cambodia from October 7 to 10 in 2019.  

The sanctuary is a 2,151 km2 large protected area with richest biodiversity in northern Myanmar. It is located in Khamti and Homalin townships.

Myanmar has eight ASEAN heritage parks: Indawgyi Wildlife Sanctuary, Khakaborazi National Park, Inlay Lake, Alaungdaw Kathapa National Garden, Meinmahla Kyun Wildlife Sanctuary, Natmataung National Park, Lanpi Marine National Park and Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary.