A historic bridge in northern Myanmar that was once the world’s tallest railway trestle has been destroyed amid the country’s ongoing civil war.
The Gokteik bridge, which opened in 1901 during British colonial rule, partly collapsed on Sunday following clashes between junta forces and pro-democracy fighters in Shan State.
Both sides have accused each other of responsibility. Military spokesperson Zaw Min Tun claimed that the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and allied people’s defence forces had “bombed and destroyed” the structure, saying it was “exploded with mines”. The TNLA rejected this version of events, accusing the army of hitting the bridge during drone strikes aimed at rebel positions.
TNLA Spokesman reacts to Gokteik bridge
“[The] Myanmar army tried to bomb our bases this morning by using drones. They bombed our troops, but their bomb also hit the Gokteik bridge,” TNLA spokesperson Lway Yay Oo said.
The bridge spans 300 metres and rises 102 metres above a gorge. It remains Myanmar’s tallest bridge and was considered the highest railway trestle in the world when completed. Situated on the border of Nawnghkio and Kyaukme townships, it forms part of the Mandalay–Lashio railway line and has long been a tourist attraction.
The destruction comes after weeks of renewed fighting in the area, where clashes between the TNLA and the military have intensified. The junta claimed to have recaptured the nearby town of Nawnghkio in July.
Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military seized power in a 2021 coup, ousting the elected government. Fighting has since spread across much of the country, with ethnic armed groups joining pro-democracy forces against the junta.
The military regime is preparing for elections in December, which opposition groups have vowed to boycott. International observers have dismissed the planned vote as lacking credibility, and analysts warn rebel offensives may escalate as the date approaches.
