Repairs are underway on the Gokteik Bridge, which was destroyed by the TNLA Palaung armed terrorist group, and it has been learned that new steel girders are currently being reinstalled.
Deputy Minister for Transport and Communications U Aung Myaing, along with general managers and regional officers from Myanmar Railways, inspected the repair work being carried out on the Nay Pyi Taw - Thazi - Thaedaw - Mandalay railway line from October 22 to 24 to enable higher-speed train operations.
The Deputy Minister inspected the ongoing repair work on the Nay Pyi Taw - Thazi - Thaedaw - Mandalay railway line by traveling on an RBE train. He issued instructions to ensure run off frames are properly installed, to systematically check and ensure the correct curve degree, alignment, and super elevations, to methodically carry out work to achieve the specified width in areas with narrow rail beds, to properly fill track ballast according to specified standards and to meticulously carry out ballast packing work using not only hand tamp machines but also the automatic leveling, lining & tamping machine (ALLTM). He also instructed to supervise the timely completion of construction work for Bridges No. 677, 691, 739, and 771, which require complete reconstruction, after properly conducting soil tests, and to promptly replace stations damaged by a severe earthquake with new ones.
Subsequently, the Deputy Minister inspected Pyinoolwin, Nawnghkio, and Gokteik stations, the condition of the repairs to the damaged girders of the Gokteik Bridge, and visited Nawnghpein and Kyaukme stations. He discussed and instructed that regular inspections be carried out on the cleanliness and tidiness of the stations and yards, the clearing of grass and undergrowth, and the structural integrity of the railway sections to resume train services. Regarding the reinstallation of the new steel girders for the Gokteik Bridge, he instructed that as it is a historical heritage bridge, work must be carried out systematically and carefully to match the original design and craftsmanship.
Later, he met with staff from departments and organizations under the ministry in Kyaukme District at the Kyaukme Township Road Transport Administration office.
Furthermore, the Deputy Minister visited and inspected the Passenger Coach and Freight Wagon Factory (Myitnge) and discussed and instructed the timely repair of passenger coaches and freight wagons, the improvement of staff quality and skills, the long-term durability and good condition of machinery and equipment in the factory, and the systematic management for the development of human resources.
