YANGON, March 12 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar has planned to launch a biodiversity and ecosystem services project in three townships along the country's Chindwin River Basin starting April 1, the official Global New Light of Myanmar reported Monday.

The research program will be conducted in 15 villages in Khamti, Kalewa and Chaung U townships which are the main areas of biodiversity conservation, an official of the Myanmar Environment Institute was quoted as saying.

Researchers will monitor the value of biodiversity and observe the environmental impact and livelihood problems in the communities.

The result of the research study will be published by the regional government, the official said.

The project of mainstream biodiversity and ecosystem services in the Chindwin River Basin is aimed at building the capacity of civil society and government agencies in assessing potential impact of development and climate change and raising awareness of biodiversity conservation.

The 1,200-km Chindwin River, a major tributary of the mighty Ayeyarwaddy River, spills her strength into the longer river at a place not far from Mandalay, an old city that is the heart of Myanmar. It runs through misty-blue mountains and charming towns and villages, proudly running through a region of abundant natural resources and fertile meadows.