Irrawaddy Delta

[1] The delta region is densely populated, and plays a dominant role in rice cultivation in its rich alluvial soil as low as just 3 metres (9.8 ft) above sea level.

On 2 May 2008, the delta suffered a major disaster, devastated by Cyclone Nargis, which reportedly killed at least 77,000 people with over 55,900 missing, and left about 2.5 million homeless.

Mawtin Point, formerly Cape Negrais, is a famous landmark in the Irrawaddy Division, and it also marks the south west end of Myanmar.

[1] The waters of these rivers are very turbid due to a heavy silt load they carry and the sea is very shallow with depths less than 5.5 metres (18 ft) across the coastline and in the east for a distance of up to 28 kilometres (17 mi) offshore.

[1] Water purity lies within the pH range of alkaline condition due to early natural resources and weak environmental control.

Politically, the Burman kingdoms in farther north of the Irrawaddy River had controlled the delta area since the mid-11th century with few exceptions.

Prawn fishery and harvesting sea turtle eggs are also major commercial activities both of which are now threatened by the loss of mangrove forests as clearing of land proceeds for agriculture.

Since communication throughout the delta is easiest by water, almost every household possesses a boat and major towns such as Bogale, Mawlamyinegyun and Myaungmya are served by steamer.

[1] Meinmahla Kyun Reservation is a national heritage site as well as a natural habitat to many mangrove forests and diverse sea life.