Myanmar has officially opened the Dala Bridge, now the country’s largest and longest steel cable-stayed bridge, while restricting certain types of vehicles from crossing to ensure road safety, according to authorities.

The opening ceremony was held on the morning of February 6 and was attended by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission and Acting President of Myanmar.

Construction of the bridge began in May 2019 and was completed after seven years. The project was built under Korea–Myanmar cooperation, financed through a combination of a loan from South Korea’s Economic Development Cooperation Fund and government contributions, with total costs exceeding USD 188 million.

The Dala Bridge has become the largest and longest steel cable-stayed bridge in Myanmar. It is designed to allow large seagoing vessels of up to 15,000 tonnes, as well as inland waterway ships, to pass beneath it. To accommodate maritime traffic, the bridge’s clearance height and width were set at maximum levels, and its access roads and approach ramps were constructed in line with international standards.

However, the Ministry of Construction announced that some sections of the bridge have steep road gradients. As a result, certain categories of vehicles will be prohibited from using the bridge to prevent traffic accidents.

Once fully operational, the bridge will significantly improve connectivity between Yangon and Dala Township, as well as Twantay, Kawhmu, and Kungyangon townships. It will also provide easier access to Ayeyarwady Region such as Dedaye, Pyapon, and Bogale, along with nearby coastal areas.