Myanmar’s Min Aung Hlaing Emphasizes Earthquake-Resilient Infrastructure During Post-Quake Rehabilitation Meetings

Mandaly, The Gulf Observer: Chairman of the State Administration Council and Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing underscored the urgent need to construct earthquake-resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding seismic activity up to magnitude 8 on the Richter scale, during separate meetings held in Sagaing and Mandalay on the country’s earthquake rehabilitation efforts.

Addressing district-level officials and local town elders at Athinkhaya Hall in Sagaing and later at the Mandalay Region Government Office, the Senior General highlighted the significant damage caused by the recent Mandalay earthquake. He noted that key structures — including pagodas, monasteries, residential buildings, and the Sagaing (Inwa) Bridge — sustained damage, prompting swift government response.

“To ensure continued waterway transport, necessary efforts will be made to remove collapsed iron frames from the damaged bridge before the onset of the rainy season,” he said, adding that plans for its reconstruction are underway.

The Senior General further announced that the government will provide construction materials such as cement, iron, and zinc at affordable prices to support rebuilding efforts. Additionally, financial assistance will be extended to homeowners based on the type and condition of the affected houses.

“Urban rehabilitation must include systematic redesigning of town plans to ensure long-term benefits and sustainable development,” he stated.

As part of broader recovery initiatives, he also emphasized the importance of bolstering local economies by expanding agricultural and livestock production, as well as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). He advocated for the use of solar energy to operate river water pumping stations to meet irrigation demands.

Key rehabilitation projects include the expedited reconstruction of schools and the upgrade of Sagaing General Hospital from a 200-bed to a 300-bed facility. Moreover, the 700th Anniversary Sports Ground in Sagaing will be transformed into a modern stadium.

To support regional recovery, the Senior General presented K50 billion to the Sagaing Region Chief Minister and K60 billion to a town elder in Mandalay Region. Local elders also highlighted the need for debris-clearing machinery, a request the Senior General promptly fulfilled.

Concluding the events, the Senior General extended his gratitude to town elders and officials for their continued cooperation and dedication to rebuilding efforts.