Rail Transportation: Yangon–Pyay DEMU express service commences

Myanma Railways commenced its new air-conditioned Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) express train service on the Yangon–Pyay–Yangon route on 31 July, marking another step in the modernization of Myanmar's passenger railway network.

The inaugural launching ceremony was attended by Union Minister for Transport U Mya Tun Oo, and officials. The new service follows the successful operation of air-conditioned DEMU express trains on the Yangon–Nay Pyi Taw, Yangon–Mandalay and Yangon–Mawlamyine routes.

The Yangon–Pyay service has been introduced in response to increasing passenger demand for faster and more convenient rail travel. Under the new timetable, Train No. 73Up departs Yangon at 5:30 a.m. and arrives in Pyay at 11:30 a.m., while Train No. 74Down leaves Pyay at 1:00 p.m. and reaches Yangon at 7:00 p.m.

Each journey takes about six hours, enabling passengers to complete a same-day round trip. Each air-conditioned DEMU express train comprises two upper-class coaches and four first-class coaches, providing seating for 290 passengers, including 66 upper-class and 224 first-class seats.

Full-route fares are set at 20,000 kyat for upper class and 15,000 kyat for first class. The trains make scheduled stops at Danyingon, Thayawady, Letpadan, Minhla, Gyobingauk, Nattalin and Paungde stations, improving connectivity between Yangon and Pyay while reducing travel time. Passengers can purchase tickets for both the existing air-conditioned express trains and the new DEMU services through the Online Railways Ticketing and Payment (ORTP) system. Tickets are available up to seven days in advance for the full route and five days in advance for intermediate stations.