CONSTRUCTION is underway on a steel-reinforced concrete bridge across Namkatin Creek, located on the road linking Bamauk Township in Katha District and Homalin Township in Hkamti District, Sagaing Region.
According to the Bridge Construction Committee, the foundation was laid on 5 November 2024, and work commenced on 15 November. The bridge is funded through donations from local gold mine operators, traders and travellers from both Bamauk and Homalin townships. The project is led by Sayadaw U Meghinda of Meghindarama Monastery in Namtaw Village and Chairman of the Homalin Township Shan Literature and Culture Committee.
The structure will span 180 feet in length and 35 feet in width, with a clearance height of 20 feet. It includes two abutments and two midstream piers and is designed to support pedestrian, motorcycle and vehicular traffic, including trucks with up to 20-tonne capacity.
Due to annual flooding during the rainy season, Namkatin Creek had long been a major transportation obstacle between the two townships. The absence of a bridge forced both people and goods to rely on boats and rafts, causing delays and logistical challenges.
Upon completion, the bridge will enable all-season connectivity for pedestrians, motorcycles, and large trucks. It is expected to significantly ease transportation and trade between Bamauk and Homalin and improve socio-economic, education, and healthcare access. Moreover, it will allow travellers from Homalin to reach Mandalay more directly. — Hline Bwa (Bamauk)/KZL
