The Moegaung Bridge located on the Mawlamyine-Thaton-Yangon Union Highway in Mon State’s Thaton Township was destroyed by a mine explosion on the evening of May 3rd, according to local residents and truck drivers. The explosion occurred at 11:19 PM, completely destroying the bridge and breaking it into sections. This marks the second time the bridge has been targeted, with the first attack occurring on February 28, 2024, which had also resulted in significant damage to the structure.
The bridge, situated near the Moegaung Pagoda, has been rendered completely unusable following this second attack, with all traffic coming to a complete halt. Local residents confirmed that the bridge has been severed into multiple sections and collapsed. This latest explosion was reportedly more powerful than the first incident, causing more extensive damage to the structure. According to residents from nearby villages, the bridge is now beyond repair and completely unusable, with the destruction being far more severe than the damage sustained in the previous attack.
Following the incident, both travelers and cargo vehicles have been forced to seek alternative routes, causing significant disruption to transportation in the area. The Moegaung Bridge’s location on the main highway connecting Yangon and Mawlamyine makes its destruction particularly impactful, with local residents pointing out the significant implications for regional commerce, transportation, and daily commuting. The bridge’s destruction has created substantial challenges for the movement of both people and goods through this crucial transportation corridor, affecting the broader economic and social activities in the region.
