Deputy Minister: Security concerns force temporary Hsipaw Bridge closure

by · Eleven Media Group Co., Ltd

Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Maj. Gen. Min Thu said the Hsipaw Bridge has been temporarily closed due to security concerns, as the MNDAA, TNLA and PDF continue to operate on the eastern side of the bridge and in several surrounding village tracts.

The Deputy Minister made the remarks while responding to a question raised by U Kaung Thet San, Pyithu Hluttaw representative for Hsipaw Constituency, during the 31st day of the Third Pyithu Hluttaw's Second Regular Session on July 28. The lawmaker asked whether there were plans to allow local residents, vehicles and the transportation of goods to cross Hsipaw Bridge under a regulated system.

According to the Deputy Minister, the TNLA, MNDAA and PDF launched coordinated attacks with superior strength on August 10, 2024, forcing security forces to temporarily withdraw from Hsipaw. The Tatmadaw subsequently conducted operations to retake the town, which had been temporarily occupied by the armed groups. Government forces regained control of the area on October 18, 2025, after which government departments resumed operations and residents were allowed to return to Hsipaw Township.

Maj. Gen. Min Thu said that although Hsipaw Bridge is normally open during peacetime, the current security situation has limited access to only 11 urban wards and nine village tracts. As the MNDAA, TNLA and PDF have not fully withdrawn and continue to operate east of the bridge and in the remaining village tracts, the bridge has been temporarily closed for security reasons.

He added that restoring regional stability is essential for economic, social and commercial activities to resume. Security forces, including the Tatmadaw, are currently prioritizing stabilization efforts. Until the security situation improves, residents in the Hsipaw area are advised to use the Nantlan–Kyaukgu–Yaksawk Road, which has been designated as the safe travel route.

Hsipaw Bridge is located on the Mandalay–Lashio–Bhamo–Myitkyina Road, spanning the Dokhtawaddy River between Pantheintaung Ward and Pansaukmain Village Tract in Hsipaw. The bridge is 569 feet long and features a 28-foot-wide roadway and a five-foot-wide pedestrian walkway.

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