A recent earthquake in Bago Region has caused extensive damage. According to preliminary reports, 71 pagodas, 186 monasteries, 92 schools, 15 religious schools, 200 departmental buildings, 289 other structures, and 1,736 homes were affected. The disaster resulted in 44 deaths and 234 injuries.
On April 8, Vice Chairman of the State Administration Council and Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Senior Soe Win, who also chairs the National Disaster Management Committee, visited the region. He was accompanied by union ministers, military officials, and other authorities to assess damage and monitor recovery efforts, including healthcare support for the injured.
The delegation visited Nan Taw Oo Lawka Marazein Pagoda to inspect damage to the structure and sacred relics. Local officials provided updates, and the Deputy Prime Minister instructed that restoration should preserve the pagoda's historical integrity.
The team also visited Taungoo Central Prison, which is under construction. Emphasizing the need for earthquake-resistant design, the Deputy Prime Minister called for quality inspections and cooperation with the Ministry of Construction.
At Taungoo Technological University, they reviewed earthquake damage to several buildings, including classrooms and labs. The Deputy Prime Minister directed that assessments and repairs be completed before the monsoon. The university, certified with ISO 9001:2025, offers six engineering programs.
The delegation visited Taungoo People’s Hospital, where they met with injured patients, offered support, and provided aid to both patients and hospital staff. Of the 67 earthquake-related patients, 59 have been discharged and eight remain under care.
They also inspected damage at Shwe San Taw Pagoda and called for urgent restoration to ensure safety and preserve its original form. At Gandawin Koe Khan Monastery, they met with the abbot and pledged to support reconstruction efforts with technical assistance.
Finally, the team visited Taungoo University and the Government Technicl Institute (Taungoo), where they assessed significant structural damage. Experts are currently inspecting affected buildings to determine safe demolition or reconstruction plans and to address electrical hazards.
