Politics

Politics

Reporter: Chai Sayam

A new capital for the military-ruled Burma has been chosen, according to sources from the Burma Broadcasting Service, writes Chai Sayam from the border:

The town picked up as the new center of government is Tatkong, located some 30 miles north of Pyinmana, where Burma's "Pentagon" is to be relocated. "The broadcasting service personnel have been asked who would choose to move there and who would not," said a source. "The new station there has already made some dry runs for 2-3 months. They told us all government ministries would also be relocated there."

Sources however were unable to find out when the mass 'resettlement' would take place. "Like Pyinmana down south, where the new War Office is to be located, constructions have been going on for sometime in Tatkong," said one.

Apart from Pyinmana, Tatkong is flanked in the west by Magwe's Taungwingyi township, where the missiles center has reportedly been in construction.

Related reports:

• Army set to move command from Rangoon, 21 November 2004

• Army receives schooling in tank warfare, 24 January 2005

Update

Firms on contract include

Main Nawrahta Group, Dagaung Bwa Co. and Nine Stars Co- for more than 300 buildings.

On 23 February, Xinhua reported Panglaung hydro power plant, 280 MW, would be able to service beginning March.