Naypyitaw has ordered closure of its Hongpang bus line

WEDNESDAY, 23 FEBRUARY 2011 13:25 S.H.A.N.

Following its refusal to renew operating license of the Wa’s Yangon Airways in December, Naypyitaw has ordered closure of its Hongpang bus line that runs between Tachilek, opposite Thailand’s Mae Sai, and , 160 km north of the border, according to a report received by SHAN.

Hongpang had already transferred ownership to Hsarm Tao, its subsidiary firm more than a year ago. It was managed by Khun Hsai Hsook, believed to be a member of the United Wa State Army (UWSA).

The order was delivered to the UWSA’s liaison officer Ah Chang in Kengtung on Sunday, 20 February, by General Staff Officer Grade 1 Col Khin Maung Htwe, said a source close to the Wa.

Moreover, Ah Chang was told all vehicles owned by the Wa must obtain official permission before embarking on a trip. “The noose has tightened,” the source quoted a Hsarm Tao employee as saying.

The Hongpang signboard near the Hsarm Tao bus station at the foothills of Loi Pangkoi, Mong Zame village tract, 13 miles south of Kengtung, where it also has a livestock farm, has also been pulled down.

There are 2 other bus lines running between the two cities: Shwe Myodaw and Shwe Yegan. The bus fare is K 4,000 (roughly $ 4) per passenger.

 

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