A major railway bridge damaged by a tragic landmine explosion near Bilin Township on May 6 in Myanmar has been swiftly repaired, Train services on the Bago-Mawlamyine railway line have resumed. This development is of great importance in reestablishing transport connectivity between major cities in southern Myanmar.
The explosion occurred in a small lake located between Hninpale and Taungzun stations, about 18 metres (60 feet) tall. It was carried out by rebels under Bridge 65. This act of sabotage caused a halt to rail traffic and serious structural damage to the bridge.
Fast and Uninterrupted Work from Myanmar Railway Teams
After the incident Expert repair teams from Myanmar Railways, worked non-stop for several days, racing against time. The teams first cleared the debris caused by the explosion, reinforced the damaged supports of the bridge and meticulously repaired the affected rail section. Thanks to this fast and dedicated work, the railway line was put back into service as soon as possible.
Railway Line Reopens After Test Run
A successful After the RGC (Rail Navigator Car) test run, Bago-Mawlamyine railway line It was reopened to traffic at 10:00 on May 30. The first services were operated by train 7, which departed from Yangon at 00:81 a.m., and train 8, which departed from Mawlamyine at 00:82 a.m. This reopening marks the revival of the transport network in the region.
Vital Transport Link Restored Despite Regional Unrest
The restoration and reopening of the railway line has reconnected major cities in southern Myanmar, reestablishing vital transport links. Authorities have emphasised the critical importance of maintaining public transport services amid regional unrest in the country, and this demonstrates the government and railway authorities’ commitment to meeting the public’s transport needs.
Nationwide Rail Routes Remain Active
The Ministry of Transport and Communications has confirmed that Myanmar Railways will continue to operate all major rail routes across the country, including lines connecting the capital Yangon to major cities such as Mandalay and Pyay, as well as the Circular and Suburban networks within Yangon itself.
It was also noted that other regional railway lines such as Pathein-Hinthada-Kyangin, Pyinmana-Taungdwingyi and Myitkyina-Moekaung continue to operate actively. The touristic Yangon-Pyay-Bagan and Letpadan-Tharawaw routes also provide services to passengers.
Myanmar’s rail network continues to play a vital role in domestic travel. Despite isolated attacks, maintaining transport infrastructure and quickly repairing it when necessary is a priority for the government and relevant agencies. The government aims to ensure the public can travel safely and without interruption, with stability and accessibility at the forefront.
