THE Ministry of Construction’s Department of Bridges has announced that Bala Min Htin Bridge II, a critical infrastructure project for Myanmar-China trade routes, is expected to be completed in 2026.
This bridge is part of the Namti-Tanai-Pansawng route, which links the Myanmar-China border trade zone at Kampaiti with India, thereby contributing significantly to national economic development. Bridge Construction Task Force 1 and Special Bridge Task Force 1 of the Department of Bridges are responsible for the project. Construction commenced on 16 October 2021.
Bala Min Htin Bridge II is being built in Sitapu Ward of Myitkyina, Kachin State, along the Mandalay-Lashio-Bhamo-Myitkyina Road, adjacent to the old Bala Min Htin Bridge, which has been in use for around 25 years.
Currently, work is underway on constructing the bridge’s main piers and approach roads on both sides, while maintenance and repairs are being carried out on the old bridge’s piers.
Once completed, the new bridge will span a length of 979 metres (about 3,212 feet) and feature bored pile concrete piers and reinforced concrete platforms. It will incorporate a Steel Box Girder and RCC Slab structure. The bridge will have a carriageway width of over 27 feet and a load capacity of up to 75 tonnes.
Upon completion, both the old and new bridges will remain operational, improving accessibility and providing a more efficient crossing for vehicles. — ASH/MKKS
