19 May 2018 | 05:11 PM UTC
Myanmar: Suspension bridges unstable in Magway and Kayin
Chinese inspectors report unstable suspension bridges in Pwint Phyu township (Magway region) and near Hpa-An (Kayin state) as of May 17; traffic congestion expected near affected bridges
Event
On Thursday, May 17, local media cited Chinese inspectors' reports that the Mezali suspension bridge in Pwint Phyu township (Magway region) and the Zatharbyin suspension bridge near Hpa-An (Kayin state) are unstable. The bridges traverse Mone creek and the Jai River in the abovementioned areas, respectively. Burmese authorities have implemented safety measures to prevent potential accidents on the affected bridges. Bus passengers will have to walk across the bridges and re-board a bus on the other side, while trucks carrying cargo will be required to reduce their weight to 13 metric tons (14.3 US tons) to cross the bridges. Consequent traffic congestion is expected in the abovementioned areas.
The Burmese government has reportedly drafted plans for the urgent replacement of the dilapidated bridges; the timetable for their replacement was not immediately reported.
Advice
Individuals traveling in the affected areas are advised to prepare for associated traffic congestion and to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
