Burma Railway, World War II railway line in Ban Pong, Thailand to Thanbyuzayat, Myanmar.
This railway line runs for more than 400 kilometers between Thailand and Myanmar, crossing dense jungle, mountain valleys, and river landscapes. The route passes through difficult terrain that includes steep slopes, ravines, and several wooden bridges over wide waterways.
The route was built between 1942 and 1943 as a military project under Japanese command, using forced laborers and prisoners of war. After the war ended, most of it was abandoned, but a section remained in operation and is now used for civilian traffic.
The name recalls the country from which most forced laborers came, whose traces remain visible in cemeteries and memorials along the route. Visitors often follow preserved sections to understand the extreme conditions under which people had to work.
A section of around 130 kilometers remains open and is served by regular trains between two stations in Thailand. Travelers can visit this part without special preparation, but should keep in mind that the journey takes several hours.
Construction took place in just 16 months, a speed achieved only through extreme human sacrifice. Today, several wooden bridges still show the original construction methods, although many parts were replaced with modern materials after the war.
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