Myanmar’s stunning historic Gokteik viaduct, one of the world’s tallest train bridges and an important cultural heritage landmark in northern Shan State, has been demolished during recent fighting. This magnificent 300-meter long bridge opened in 1901 to worldwide acclaim and became known as the world’s tallest railway trestle. It turned into the signature attraction of the Mandalay-Lashio railway line and drew hundreds of thousands of tourists annually. The viaduct, which stands 102 meters above a gorge, links Nawnghkio and Kyaukme townships. This remarkable complex remains a testament to the creativity and vision of colonial-era engineering.
On Sunday, the Myanmar army faced intense fighting from ethnic armed groups. The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and many of their contemporaneous people’s defense forces were leading the charge in these major clashes. The military junta blames these groups for blowing up and collapsing the Gokteik viaduct. This latest accusation further ramps up tensions in a region already caught in a civil war since the February 2021 coup that removed the civilian-led government.
Zaw Min Tun, a spokesperson for the junta, claimed that rebel forces caused all the destruction.
“bombed and destroyed” – Zaw Min Tun, junta spokesperson – The Guardian
This assertion was hotly contested by TNLA representatives. They claimed that the destruction of the bridge was accidentally caused by drone attacks from the Myanmar military.
Lway Yay Oo, a spokesperson for the TNLA, explained the situation from their perspective:
“Myanmar army tried to bomb our bases … this morning by using drones. They bombed our troops, but their bomb also hit Gokteik bridge” – Lway Yay Oo, TNLA spokesperson – The Guardian
The ongoing armed conflict has been marked by ever-growing military incursions by the junta, which recaptured Nawnghkio in mid-July. This reckless violence has led to extensive loss of life and property throughout the entire region. Its destruction means the central pillar of Myanmar’s famous historical landmark has been erased forever. It serves to highlight the damaging effects that the ongoing conflict has on Myanmar’s shared cultural heritage.
With combat ongoing just a few towns over, neither side seems willing to budge on argued points. Now, accusations are flying and violence is escalating. What’s next for that talented region and their famous movable bridge is up in the air.