Dec 17, 2008 (DVB)â€"Authorities have been collecting 200 kyat each from families in Bagan and the surrounding areas to provide security for junta leader senior general Than Shwe’s visit to the area.
According to a local resident, the money collected is to be used to feed the soldiers on security duty.
"They have been collecting 200 kyat from each household for inner and outer rings of security and guards at Bagan and Nyaung-U,†the resident said.
“It’s the local authorities’ way of covering the expenses."
Local authorities also ordered local people to suspend trading activities and traffic diversions were put in place.
"They are asking people to register as guests and charging them 50 kyat each,†the local resident said.
“Buses are not allowed to stop. Hawkers have been cleared from the route by the police."
Than Shwe and his family have been staying at the Thiripyitsaya hotel in Bagan since 12 December.
They will be attending a cadet graduation ceremony at Maymyo military academy.
Reporting by Phone Min Naing
