We are all waiting. The train will arrive in a few minutes. It normally comes from the north, from Mandalay. But this morning, the train is delayed. The railway workshop in Myitnge is one of the most important workshops in all of Burma. It takes care of passenger coaches and freight wagons and needs to be in tip-top shape. That’s why we are waiting.
The general strike in 1974 started right here in the Myitnge railway yard. Workers went on strike demanding higher wages. It quickly spread throughout the entire country, reaching the capital Rangoon, where the army opened fire on the strikers. The strike led to a lot of bloodshed. The army intervened. Today it is calm in Myitnge again. Nothing reminds us of the tragedy but the workshop still holds an important place in the Burmese infrastructure.
The train is still late, but we are hopeful. Soon, we will be able to pass the Myitnge River and continue our journey to the north.