No plan to operate coastal cargo vessels between Yangon and Rakhine

There are currently no plans to operate coastal cargo vessels for regular trips between Yangon and Rakhine State, said Deputy Minister of Transport U Tun Lu. This was in response to a question from U Mya Lwin, the National Assembly representative for Rakhine State Constituency No. 2, during the 23rd day of the 2nd regular session of the 3rd National Assembly held on July 30. U Mya Lwin had asked whether there were plans to operate regular ship services along the coastal route connecting Yangon and Rakhine State. In response to the question, Deputy Minister U Tun Lu of the Ministry of Transport stated that the ministry currently does not have coastal vessels, and therefore has no plans to operate regular services between Yangon and Rakhine. He added that once funds are secured, coastal vessels will be purchased and built, and will be operated in important areas based on operational needs. Currently, the transportation of goods from Yangon to Rakhine State is being arranged using private cargo vessels and Tatmadaw (military) vessels. Furthermore, to facilitate travel to Rakhine State, air travel services are operated daily. The Rakhine State government will also screen individuals facing health and economic difficulties due to current transportation restrictions and arrange for them to travel on coastal cargo vessels, said Deputy Minister U Tun Lu of the Ministry of Transport.