Myanmar’s U Bein Bridge on Taungthaman Lake in Amarapura Township, Mandalay Region

is temporarily closed due to a partial collapse that injured 23 people, including eight women.

On Thadingyut Full Moon Day on 29 October, at around 3 pm, a considerable crowd of visitors caused the collapse of two sections at front edge of the bridge.

"The bridge remains structurally sound, but the front edge had been deteriorating for quite some time. Officials failed to impose restrictions on crossing that weakened section, leading to its collapse," explained a local vendor.

Due to the heavy influx of visitors on the bridge since the morning of the holy day, several teakwood pillars near the front edge of the bridge broke. As a result, a total of 23 people, including 8 women, sustained minor injuries, according to local sources.

“Over 50 people fell from a bridge due to excess weight, resulting in 23 injuries. However, those affected declined hospital treatment,” said a local philanthropist.

Currently, the bridge is temporarily closed.

"Despite the collapse of three teakwood pillars on the bridge, the situation didn't escalate to a more serious outcome due to the shallow water beneath the bridge," said a local residing near Taungthaman Lake.

According to the Taungmingyi Board of Trustees responsible for bridge maintenance, the U Bein Bridge in Amarapura Township typically attracts around 20,000 visitors on special occasions.

The U Bein Bridge is a renowned teakwood bridge that spans across Taungthaman Lake. It holds the distinction of being the world's oldest and longest teakwood bridge, measuring approximately 1.2 kilometres in length.