The first phase is scheduled for completion in May next year and will see the eastern part of the loop route restored in two different stages. Upgrades on the western half will start in October 2019 and finish at an as yet unspecified date.
Upgrades right across the board include automation of signals, the installation of central control systems for road level crossings and access gates at four stations. These stations are Kemmendine, Insein, Danyingone and Mingladon. Apart from Yangon Central, these are the busier ones out of the 38 stations on the 45km circle line.
Ticket sales will also be computerised for convenience while 66 new and modern carriages for trains are on order. Japan is chipping in MMK280 billion to help out with the refurbishment of the train service originally built during British colonial rule.
12GO ASIA’s travel gurus say riding the Yangon Circular Railway is a quintessential Myanmar experience. The journey takes in districts of the city not typically on the mainstream tourism trail.
Revamp of Yangon commuter rail service to kick off in two months
News in Asia
A senior official with Myanmar Railways has confirmed major upgrades are set to take place on the Yangon Circular Railway. Manager Zaw Lwin told media sources in the nation’s former capital city that the first phase will start in October.