Pyithu Hluttaw reviews township governance, infrastructure and agriculture issues

 

The Third Pyithu Hluttaw convened the 28th day of its second regular session in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday, with Speaker U Khin Yi and Deputy Speaker U Maung Maung Ohn presiding over the meeting. Lawmakers raised seven questions covering township administration, road and bridge infrastructure, agricultural development, reservoir rehabilitation, transport routes and farmland management.

Responding to a question on whether the government plans to enact a Township Administration Law, Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Maj-Gen Min Thu said there are currently no plans to draft such legislation. He explained that township administration is already governed by existing laws, presidential directives and administrative regulations, which clearly define the responsibilities and powers of township authorities. He said these legal provisions are considered adequate for the effective management of township affairs.

Addressing a question on upgrading the Nyaungsayay-Tayokhmaw-Kwayma road in Shwedaung Township, Union Minister for Cooperatives and Rural Development U Myo Zaw Thein said the route is managed by the ministry’s Department of Rural Road Development. He noted that much of the road remains too narrow for asphalt paving and requires embankment widening and gravel surfacing first. The initial improvement works have been proposed for the 2027-2028 financial year, subject to budget approval. On another question, he said the construction of a new Gwaygyo Bridge in Kyangin Township is not included in the government’s current priorities because nearby villages have alternative access to the main highway. However, repairs to the existing bridge to allow pedestrians and motorcycles to cross are planned during the 2027-2028 financial year.

Replying to several agriculture-related questions, Deputy Minister for Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation Dr Ye Tint Tun said the government is working to improve the transportation of goods, prevent illegal taxation along trade routes and support domestic agricultural production. He urged people to report illegal toll collection with evidence so that authorities can take action. He also said the government is expanding domestic seed production, distributing fertilizer at affordable prices and implementing measures under existing laws to protect farmers’ interests. Dr Ye Tint Tun also outlined the Rice Export Zone (REZ) project, saying it is being implemented through a government-private sector partnership to produce high-quality rice that meets international standards and boosts exports. Under the scheme, participating farmers will receive financial assistance of up to K750,000 per acre, including support from exporters, the State Economic Promotion Fund and agricultural loans. Farmers will also receive quality seeds, fertilizer, technical assistance and improved market access.

On a separate question concerning the transfer of farmland ownership after the death of a registered landholder, Dr Ye Tint Tun said legal heirs must continue to follow existing inheritance and land registration procedures, adding that no changes to the current process are planned.

Responding to a question on Naung Tone Hone Reservoir in Kengtawng, Deputy Minister for Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation U Bo Bo Kyaw said the reservoir has gradually lost water storage capacity because of sediment accumulation. He said dredging, embankment improvements and the construction of a new spillway have been proposed for the 2027-2028 financial year, subject to funding, to improve irrigation and domestic water supplies.

The Pyithu Hluttaw adjourned and is scheduled to resume its 29th day of meetings on 24 July.

MNA/ST

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