Myanmar’s Gokteik Viaduct, a colonial-era railway bridge located in Shan State, has reportedly been destroyed amid ongoing armed clashes between the country’s military junta and resistance forces, CNA informs.
According to the junta’s official statements released on 24 August, the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and People's Defence Forces (PDF) were responsible for bombing the bridge using landmines. A TNLA spokesperson, however, has denied responsibility, stating that a junta airstrike intended for TNLA positions struck the bridge instead.
What is Gokteik Viaduct
The Gokteik Viaduct was opened in 1901 during British colonial rule. Spanning a deep gorge, the steel trestle structure stood 102 metres above ground and was once the tallest railway bridge in the world. It formed part of the railway connection between Mandalay and Lashio in northern Shan State and had remained a key transport link and tourist site.
Images circulating on social media show portions of the structure collapsed, though full details on the extent of the damage have not been independently verified.
The incident occurred in a region where hostilities between the junta and ethnic armed groups have intensified. Fighting around the towns of Nawnghkio and Kyaukme has continued through recent weeks. The military previously claimed to have regained control of Nawnghkio in July.
The Gokteik Viaduct was not only part of Myanmar’s railway infrastructure but also served as a logistical route in a region affected by the country’s ongoing internal conflict since the 2021 military coup.
