Highway bus plunge claims 14 lives
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A bus accident on Monday on the highway between Myanmar's capital Nay Pyi Taw and Yangon killed at least 14 people and injured 29, police said Tuesday.
Accidents and traffic congestion are now major problems of the country, which in recent years has opened new routes and welcomed the imports of more vehicles.
The accident occurred when the bus, driving in torrential rains, bumped into a milestone and tumbled into a ravine, DPA reported, quoting Nay Pyi Taw Police Lieutenant Colonel Min Zaw said.
Among the victims were 10 men and four women, he said.
The highway, built shortly after the capital was shifted in 2005 from Yangon to the site in central Myanmar, is marked by milestones and furlong stones, which are eight to the mile. – DPA
It was reported that Yangon General Hospital’s emergency unit daily treats some 40 to 50 patients for crime-related injuries, according Yangon Region East District police force. Road accidents and street brawls are the main reasons.
“As for emergency cases, coming only to Yangon General Hospital daily are 40 or 50 patients. The unit is divided for different treatment for bones, brain, and physical injuries,” said Police Lt Colonel Win Kyi from Yangon Region East District police force, on May 9.
There were 1,559 car accidents, 2,007 motorcycle accidents, 825 collisions between cars and motorcycles, and 932 other road accidents, totalling 5,323 cases in the first four months of this year.
In another development, Shoyama Takashi from Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)’s Greater Yangon Urban Transport Project suggested reforms of traffic-related agencies in Yangon, to ease congestion in the former capital.
“The government needs to revamp some organisations and repair traffic posts as part of short-term measure to reduce the traffic jam in Yangon within one year,” said Takashi, said at a conference on May 12.
The organisations that need reforming are the Yangon regional government and organisations under the ministry of rail transportation, he continued.
Other short-term measures include the implementation of a Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) system, as well as the improvement of car parking and junctions.
JICA plans the BRT system for Yangon, which will feature 11 bus stops. It is part of the comprehensive plan which may entail investment of US$25 million.
It was reported that the number of city commuters has risen to 11 million and is expected to reach 20 million next year.
