Launching of DEMU train: YGN CM opened the Yangon-Bago new train route

Myanmar Railways is currently operating passenger trains on various railway lines to facilitate convenient and efficient travel for the public. With the Yangon Circular Railway Line upgrade project and the introduction of modern Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) trains purchased from Spain, the launching ceremony for the Yangon-Bago route No. 15 up-train and Bago-Yangon route No. 16 down-train was held at the Yangon Central Railway Station at 7:00 a.m. on 1st October.

The ceremony was attended by Yangon Region Chief Minister U Soe Thein, Deputy Minister for Transport and Communications U Aung Myaing, members of the Yangon Region Government, heads of departments from the Ministry of Transport and Communications, the Managing Director of Myanmar Railways and officials, as well as staff members of Myanmar Railways and passengers.

During the ceremony, the Yangon Region Chief Minister delivered an opening speech, stating that the government is working hard to improve the transportation sector to enhance the socio-economic status of the people in line with the modern era. He highlighted that, alongside the Yangon Circular Railway upgrade, the use of the new DEMU trains purchased from Spain for the Yangon-Bago route allows passengers to travel comfortably and in a modern manner, marking a significant step forward. He urged passengers and local residents to cooperate in maintaining the upgraded railway lines and new modern trains, which were developed with substantial government investment, to ensure long-term sustainability.

Next, the Deputy Minister and Managing Director of Myanmar Railways clarified the history of Myanma Railways and arrangements implemented for the operation of Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) Up and Down trains.

After expressing words of thanks by a local resident, Managing Director of Myanmar Railways presented memorable gift to Yangon Region Chief Minister.   

After that, Chief Minister, Deputy Minister and officials cut the ribbon at platform No. 1 of Yangon Central Railway Station, officially launching the new No. 15 up DEMU train for the Yangon-Bago route. They sprinkled the train's engine with scented water, took commemorative photos, and greeted passengers warmly, presenting them with souvenirs. Traditional ethnic dance troupes, youth dance groups, and cultural performers also entertained the attendees.

Following this, the Yangon Region Chief Minister boarded the new DEMU train from Yangon Central Railway Station and traveled to Toe Kyaung Kalay Station, where he presented monetary rewards to Myanmar Railways staff and waved to passengers from the platform. When the train arrived at Bago Station, over 300 people, including officials from the Bago Region Government, the Minister of Transportation, and local residents, welcomed it with festive performances by the Shan Drum Dance Troupe and other groups.

It is noted that the previous No. 13 up-train and No. 14 down-train RBE service on the Yangon-Bago route has been temporarily suspended. The service has been upgraded to operate as the No. 15 up-train and No. 16 down-train using the new modern DEMU trains under the existing RBE timetable.