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Myanmar to Redesign Capital City Following Earthquake Damage
Nay Pyi Taw, the capital city of Myanmar, will undergo a redesign in its layout after experiencing significant damage from a recent earthquake, according to the nation’s military leader. The devastating earthquake, which shook the region last month, exposed vulnerabilities in the city’s infrastructure, prompting a comprehensive review and reconstruction plan.
Earthquake Exposes Construction Flaws in Nay Pyi Taw
During a government meeting, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing stated that the extensive collapse of buildings during the earthquake was largely attributed to construction on unstable, soft soil. He emphasized that future construction of government office buildings must prioritize earthquake resistance. Soil testing will be conducted before any rebuilding initiatives begin to ensure structural integrity.
Relocation of Government Offices Post-Earthquake
Reports indicate that approximately 70% of government buildings in the capital sustained damage from the seismic event. The extent of the damage has led to the temporary relocation of some government offices to Yangon.
Impact of the 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake
A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on March 28th, causing widespread devastation. The tremor was felt as far away as Thailand and southwest China, highlighting the earthquake’s immense power. State media reported that the disaster resulted in over 3,500 fatalities and 5,012 injuries within Myanmar.
Nay Pyi Taw: A Relatively New Capital City
Nay Pyi Taw, a sprawling city significantly larger than London geographically but with a much smaller population, has a brief history. Established in 2005 under the former military regime of Myanmar (previously known as Burma), the capital emerged from flatlands as a purpose-built administrative center.
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The Purpose and Design of Myanmar’s Capital
Nay Pyi Taw, translating to “royal capital,” was established as the seat of government for reasons that remain somewhat unclear. The decision to relocate the capital approximately 370km inland from Yangon, the country’s largest city, has been the subject of speculation.
Features of a Planned Capital
The city exhibits characteristics typical of meticulously planned capitals. Vast boulevards, including a 20-lane highway leading from the parliament to the presidential palace, experience minimal traffic. Modern shopping complexes and unoccupied luxury hotels line these wide avenues. Nay Pyi Taw also features amenities such as a safari park, a zoo, and multiple sports stadiums.
Civil Conflict and Ceasefire Efforts
Since 2021, Myanmar has been embroiled in civil conflict, pitting the ruling junta, which gained power through a military coup, against various ethnic armed groups and resistance movements across the nation.
Temporary Ceasefires and Humanitarian Aid
Following the earthquake and amid ongoing conflict, a 20-day ceasefire was declared by the military council on April 2nd. This followed a similar announcement of a cessation of hostilities by an alliance of three rebel factions. These ceasefires were ostensibly intended to facilitate the delivery of aid to affected populations, but reports suggest that military actions have persisted in areas under rebel control.
Government Buildings Severely Affected
Official records from the military council reveal extensive damage to numerous government buildings, including the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Planning, and the Union Supreme Court. Many of these structures remain in a state of disrepair, with reconstruction work yet to commence.
Documents and Departments Relocated
Orders have been issued for the removal of essential government documents, equipment, and other movable assets from damaged buildings. Due to the extensive reconstruction timeline, estimated to take years, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism have reportedly transferred their operations to Yangon, approximately 366km away.
Temporary Offices in Nay Pyi Taw
Other government departments are establishing temporary offices in “hotai” structures within Nay Pyi Taw. These open-air halls are constructed with steel frameworks to provide interim workspace solutions. Staff at the National Museum in Nay Pyi Taw have documented their efforts on social media to relocate and preserve invaluable artifacts, including inscriptions, manuscripts, and tens of thousands of books and literary works, along with computer equipment.