Yangon–Mandalay Expressway to undergo four-lane AC road
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Htet Nadi (NP News) - Aug 12
The Yangon–Mandalay Expressway is set for a major infrastructure upgrade, with plans underway to expand the road into a four-lane asphalt concrete (AC) highway. Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission, announced the directive during an inspection tour on August 4.
Accompanied by Joint Executive Chief General Ye Win Oo and other officials, the Senior General inspected several segments of the Yangon–Naypyidaw section of the expressway, including repair work at the water outlet near milepost 94 and the ongoing reconstruction of the Swa Creek Bridge.
During the visit, the Senior General emphasized the need for comprehensive environmental and legal oversight alongside the physical upgrades. He directed officials to plant trees within the 200-foot-wide road reserve and establish five to ten-acre mini-forests on both sides of the expressway during the current monsoon season. These green efforts are to be carried out in protected public forests and designated forest reserves, aiming to enhance the expressway’s ecological balance and landscape.
In addition to the road expansion and greening efforts, the Senior General called for strict enforcement of the Expressways Law. He instructed authorities to take necessary action against unauthorized roadside constructions, including illegally opened restaurants and buildings. He also urged supervision to prevent the development of unauthorized access routes and stressed the importance of ensuring that all designated entry and exit points adhere to legal standards and safety protocols.
While inspecting the reconstruction of Swa Creek Bridge, he highlighted the importance of quality control in bridge construction and watercourse management. He called for systematic work on retaining walls and flow channels to minimize environmental impact and ensure long-term sustainability.
The expressway upgrade marks a significant investment in national infrastructure and reflects the government’s emphasis on transportation efficiency, road safety, and environmental stewardship.