Southeast Asia Information Port News (www.dnyxxg.com) Myanmar Railways recently launched express passenger trains on the Yangon-Mandalay line. Utilizing modern air-conditioned diesel multiple units, and thanks to track upgrades and equipment optimization, the journey time between the two cities has been significantly reduced from approximately 19 hours to 10 hours, greatly improving public travel convenience.
It is understood that the track upgrade project was carried out in phases: the Yangon-Taungoo section was completed with the support of a Japanese government development aid loan, while the Taungoo-Naypyidaw and Naypyidaw-Mandalay sections were upgraded with government funds. Track improvements, the deployment of a modern signaling system, and upgrades to the locomotives and carriages have laid a solid foundation for the increased train speed.
The opening ceremony was held simultaneously at Yangon and Mandalay railway stations on the morning of the day, attended by the regional chief minister, deputy minister, relevant officials, and local residents. The inaugural train departed from both locations in both directions at 6:00 AM that day. The train consists of six carriages (four first-class carriages and two second-class carriages), accommodating 312 passengers. The full fare is 34,000 kyats for first-class and 48,000 kyats for second-class. It stops at nine stations along the route: Bago, Taungoo, Pyinmana, Naypyidaw, Ye Myint, Thaze, and Kyaukse.
The introduction of this express train, with its modern infrastructure and optimized operational configuration, significantly reduces travel time between Yangon and Mandalay, providing a more efficient and comfortable option for cross-regional travel.
