CNI News
February 16, 2026
Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the National Security and Peace Restoration Commission, stated that the government will provide necessary support for the development of the Naga Self-Administered Zone in Sagaing Region, an area currently facing significant developmental gaps.
The Senior General made these remarks during a meeting with departmental officials and community elders in Lahe and Leshi towns of the Naga Self-Administered Zone on February 16, 2026.
During the visit, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing said, "I have come here to facilitate the requirements for the development of the Naga region. We will continue to support the construction of a festival ground and a multi-purpose hall for traditional festivals in Lahe. To improve regional connectivity, priority will be given to upgrading roads connecting to the mainland. To ease transportation, the Chindwin River Crossing Bridge (Thamanti) has been successfully inaugurated today."
The Thamanti Bridge, which links Homalin District with the Naga region, was officially opened on February 16, 2026.
The Senior General added: "Due to the difficult terrain of the Naga region, road upgrading projects are being carried out annually based on the fiscal year to improve connectivity. Similarly, efforts are underway to ensure the road connecting Lahe and Nanyun is accessible in all seasons. We are also striving to ensure smooth travel on roads leading to the mainland. Because transportation difficulties hinder the transport of materials for regional development, we will continue to work on ensuring secure and smooth regional logistics."
Regarding healthcare, he stated that military specialists would be dispatched if Lahe Township Hospital requires more doctors, and additional health staff would be appointed. He also pledged to provide medical equipment to the extent possible.
Departmental officials submitted several requests, including: Expanding departmental bodies to levels appropriate for the Naga region.Constructing a City Hall for the Naga Self-Administered Zone.Establishing a Department of Disaster Management. Improving telecommunication and mobile services. Facilitating border trade matters. Ensuring sufficient electricity for certain wards in Leshi and rural areas.
Constructing an advanced reservoir and providing modern machinery for the Matugi Hydropower Plant to ensure adequate water supply.
Ensuring the Thamanti-Leshi-Somra road is accessible in all seasons.
The Senior General observed a lack of food self-sufficiency in the Leshi and Lahe areas. He emphasized that local food security is a vital necessity and pledged to implement upland farming projects. He also mentioned that water management for agricultural use would be organized. He urged the expansion of maize and potato cultivation in Lahe and stressed the importance of increasing the production of local crops such as tea, plum, coffee, orange, and avocado.
