Maung Maung Thwin, MR general manager, said: “The upgrade plan covers civil engineering works such as level crossings, fencing, platforms, channels and embankments. We invited bids for the project to spend the government budget.”

Six companies submitted applications for the west part and seven for the east part.

“There were 13 applicants from eight companies as some have submitted two bids,” he added.

“The project is expected to launch in October after financial evaluation for the companies. We are scrutinising three companies for the eastern Danyingone-Pazundaung section and two companies for Phayalan-Danyingone, both on the eastern side.”

The MR has drafted the two-year civil engineering project until 2019. As a second step, the MR would upgrade telecommunications and introduce diesel-electric coaches, Maung Maung Thwin said.