Yunnan Shangri-La Dukezong Ancient Town to be Rebuilt by 2016

The restoration of the ancient town of Dukezong in southwest China's Yunnan Province is well underway with funding of 1.22 billion yuan (196.46 million U.S. dollars) and is expected to be completed by the end of 2016, chinanews.com reports.

With a history of 1,300 years, Dukezong boasts the largest and best preserved Tibetan-style residential buildings in China, and is the hub of the ancient Tea-Horse road. On Jan. 11, 2014, the town was damaged by a devastating fire, which destroyed an area of 59,981 square meters.

Shangri-La County Magistrate Xiao Xu says the restoration work will be done based on Dukezong’s original form of strong ethnic Tibetan features. In addition, locals officials have plans to draw tourists to Dukezong and will apply for the town to be recognized nationally as a site of historical and cultural heritage.

"Eleven roads have been rebuilt in the first phase of construction so far, and water and electricity have been provided for local residents," said Xiao.

Furthermore, the reconstruction of Dukezong’s residential lands was launched in August last year. In all, 76 of 79 homes are under reconstruction.