Sishay Bridge Rebuilt in Its Original Form Inaugurated in Mandalay
Mandalay, The Gulf Observer: A grand inauguration ceremony for the Sishay Bridge, reconstructed in its original form, was held near Shishay Gate at the western wall of the Royal Mandalay City yesterday morning. The event was attended by Chairman of the State Administration Council (SAC), Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.
At the ceremony, Mandalay Region Minister for Development Affairs and Chairman of Mandalay City Development Committee, Mayor U Kyaw Hsan, briefed the Senior General on the bridge’s reconstruction. To mark the occasion, Mandalay Region Chief Minister U Myo Aung presented a commemorative gift to the Senior General.
The official ribbon-cutting was performed by Union Minister for Religious Affairs and Culture U Tin Oo Lwin, Mandalay Region Chief Minister U Myo Aung, Lt-Gen Ko Ko Oo from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief (Army), Director of Military Engineers Maj-Gen Zaw Naing Oo, and Mandalay Mayor U Kyaw Hsan. Following this, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing unveiled the stone plaque of the bridge and performed a traditional ceremony of sprinkling scented water on it. He, along with his wife Daw Kyu Kyu Hla and his entourage, walked across the bridge, engaging warmly with local residents.
The event was attended by SAC Joint Secretary General Ye Win Oo, council members and their wives, Union ministers and their wives, Mandalay Region Chief Minister, senior Tatmadaw officers, and other officials.
The historical Sishay Bridge was originally constructed by King Mindon in 1221 ME (Myanmar Era) alongside the Myanansankyaw Golden Palace, standing as a symbol of architectural and cultural heritage. The bridge suffered extensive damage during World War II and serves as the primary exit on the western wall of the royal city.
In line with the directive of the SAC Chairman Prime Minister, the Directorate of Military Engineers began reconstruction in August 2024, ensuring that the bridge was restored to its original form and designed for long-term sustainability.
The successful completion of the Sishay Bridge further enhances the cultural and historical significance of the Myanansankyaw Golden Palace, preserving Myanmar’s rich national heritage for future generations.
