Due to the sharply decreasing number of passengers in Yangon following the COVID-19 outbreak, 69 local and circular trains have suspended operation as of March 29, according to Myanma Railways. 

MR was operating 168 trains in Yangon. As 69 have suspended running, the remaining 99 remain operational. 

“Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, there are only a few rail passengers. So we will suspend the operation of 69 trains and 99 will remain operational daily,” said an official from MR. 

Schedules of the running trains will be announced at respective railway stations. 

Highway trains leaving Yangon continue running but plans are underway to reduce coaches depending on the number of passengers. 

On March 28, No.89 up Yangon-Mawlamyine train reduced four coaches—two upper-class coaches and two ordinary coaches. 

COVID-19 preventive measures are being taken at Yangon Railway Station such as taking body temperature, keeping hand sanitizers and disinfecting the local trains. 

Plans are also underway to keep hand sanitizers at every railway station in the city. 

However, more trains will be operated in the Thingyan period if the number of passengers rises, the official said. 

The Ministry of Health and Sports distributed 500 stickers and 3000 leaflets and 100 notices on facts about COVID-19.