Better Transportation: Major milestone for Yangon Region's connectivity

The newly opened Bago River Crossing Bridge (Thanlyin Bridge No.3) has seen a significant surge in traffic since its opening on June 8th.

By Sunday morning, over 17,000 vehicles had crossed the bridge, facilitating commutes to and from Thanlyin. Starting June 16th, tolls will be collected based on vehicle types, although tolling will be exempted until June 15th.Spanning 8,638 feet, the four-lane bridge connects Thaketa and Thanlyin Townships in Yangon Region.

It boasts a water clearance of 43 feet in height and 735 feet in width, with the capacity to withstand loads of up to 75 tons. The project, initiated in stages since 2013, was constructed with a loan disbursed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The loan agreement was signed in 2017, and construction began in 2019. Although construction and loan disbursement were halted in 2021, the project resumed with the provision of 46 billion kyats from the government.Distinctively built as a Cable Stayed Bridge, this structure aims to serve as a prominent landmark for Yangon City.

The new bridge is expected to alleviate traffic congestion, especially with the increasing economic activities from local and foreign investments in the Thilawa Special Economic Zone. This development is anticipated to spur socio-economic growth for the residents of Thalyin, Kyauktan, Khayan, and Thongywa Townships in Yangon South District.

Furthermore, the bridge will enhance connectivity with Pa-an and Myawady via the East-West Economic Corridor, thereby contributing to the development of Mon and Kayin States and improving transportation links with neighboring countries.