Yangon circular train to launch batteryelectric locomotives on 25 Mar

25 MARCH 2026

MYANMA Railways (MR) has announced that trains powered by battery electric locomotives will begin operating on the Yangon circular railway starting 25 March.

The new battery-powered circular train will consist of four passenger coaches and one brake van. Currently, MR is already utilizing battery locomotives for the No 27 Up / 28 Down Nay Pyi Taw-Mandalay-Nay Pyi Taw airbag express train, which commenced service on 22 November, 2025.

Switching from diesel to battery electric power offers significant savings: Nay Pyi Taw-Mandalay Route – saves over K1.3 million per round trip compared to diesel; Yangon circular route – expected to save approximately K600,000 per day compared to diesel locomotives.

The launch ceremony for the battery electric Yangon circular train is scheduled for 25 March at 7 am at Platform 1, Yangon Central Railway Station. — Htun Htun/ZN