The Mandalay City Development Committee (MCDC) and military forces are pressuring property owners to quickly clear earthquake debris and properly screen damaged buildings ahead of military council leader Min Aung Hlaing’s anticipated visit to the city. Property owners in Mandalay have reported being summoned to sign acknowledgment forms regarding these directives. The MCDC has issued various orders to owners of earthquake-damaged buildings, including requirements to maintain aesthetic appearances of damaged structures, obtain permits for repairs, and halt all ongoing construction projects throughout the city.
According to a two-story building owner whose property was tilted by the earthquake, officials from both the MCDC and palace garrison have called meetings to inform property owners about the upcoming VIP route and demanded immediate cleanup of earthquake debris and proper screening of unsightly buildings. Property owners were required to sign documents acknowledging these instructions. Another property owner revealed that the MCDC had informally notified them that Min Aung Hlaing is expected to visit around May 18 or later in the month.
The MCDC has implemented strict regulations regarding the demolition of earthquake-damaged buildings. High-rise buildings require special permits for demolition, while two and three-story buildings can be demolished with notification to ward administrators if there is no risk to surrounding areas. Those requesting MCDC assistance with demolition must wait at least three months. Additionally, the MCDC has been conducting surveys to classify damaged buildings into blue, orange, and red categories based on severity. Building owners must obtain endorsements from licensed engineers and submit applications to the MCDC for any repair work. The military council has also ordered all construction projects across Mandalay’s six townships to be suspended pending inspection of main support structures by their assessment teams, who will determine whether construction can continue.
