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Pyay,[a] and formerly anglicised as Prome,[b] is the principal town of Pyay Township in the Bago Region in Myanmar. Pyay is located on the bank of the Irrawaddy River, 260 km (160 mi) north-west of Yangon.[1] It is an important trade center for the Ayeyarwady Delta, Central and Upper Myanmar and the Rakhine (Arakan) State.[2] The British Irrawaddy Flotilla Company established the current town in the late 19th century on the Irrawaddy as a transshipment point for cargo between Upper and Lower Burma. Pyay is also the terminus of Yangon-Pyay Railway which is the first railway line in Burma (Myanmar) opened on 1 May 1877. The English novelist Jane Austen's brother Rear Admiral Charles Austen died here in 1852. Shin Raṭṭhasāra, a Buddhist monk and prominent classical poet during the Kingdom of Ava also died here in 1529 and a mausoleum was constructed to honor him.

Key Information

The district of Pyay encompasses the valley of the Irrawaddy, located between Thayet, Hinthada and Tharrawaddy districts. Along the western side of Pyay District are the Arakan Mountains and along the eastern side are the Pegu Range. Pyay District's main towns are Pyay, Shwetaung, and Paungde.

Etymology

[edit]

The name "Pyay" means "Country" in Burmese, and refers to the ruins of the main city of the Pyu city-states, Sri Ksetra (Burmese: သရေခေတ္တရာ, Sanskrit Śrīkṣetra "blessed place, country"), which is located 8 km (5.0 mi) to the south-east of modern Pyay and is in the village of Hmawza.

Geography

[edit]

The north and north-east of the district is forest-covered, and contains numerous valleys and ravines, which unite in one large stream called the Nawin. The most important of the plains lie in the south and south-west portions of Pyay, and extend along the whole length of the railway that runs between. There are, in addition large tracts of land covered by jungle, which are available for cultivation. The principal river is the Irrawaddy River, which intersects the district from north to south; next in importance are the Thani and its tributaries and the Nawin system of rivers. In the hills near the capital the soil is of Tertiary formation, and in the plains it is an alluvial deposit.

Historical Context: Historically, Pyay encompassed an area of approximately 18 square miles (47 square km) within its walled city. This made it one of the largest walled cities in Southeast Asia during its peak. Present Day: The total area of Pyay City is now 34.48 square kilometers. The urban area has expanded rapidly since 1990, growing from 21.76 square kilometers to 34.48 square kilometers in 2018. This urban expansion has been concentrated in the eastern and southern parts of the city. Location and Importance: Pyay is located on the eastern bank of the Ayeyarwady River, 260 kilometers northwest of Yangon. It serves as an important trade center for the Ayeyarwady Delta, Central and Upper Myanmar, and the Rakhine (Arakan) State.

History

[edit]

Mucate surrounds the construction of Sri Ksetra. Htin Aung suggests that Pyu might have been founded in 78 CE, based on the Sanskrit / Pyu Era. D. G. E. Hall and Gordon Luce, however, claim that civilisation of the Irrawaddy Valley could not have been possible before the 4th century, thus, attributing the founding of Sri Ksetra to 638, from which the current Burmese Kawza Era begins.

Sri Ksetra was the capital of the Pyu dynasty of Vikrama. The city was circular with walls enclosing about 46 km2 (18 sq mi), making it the largest walled city in Southeast Asia during its peak. The city contained both housing and farms, as is evident from the remains of waterways and tanks which have been discovered.

The Chinese pilgrims Xuanzang and Yijing mentioned Sri Ksetra in their mid-7th-century accounts.[3] It is not known when precisely the Pyu abandoned Sri Ksetra and moved northward. It is speculated that their decline was due to the growth of the Irrawaddy river delta, cutting it off from coastal trade, and also from Mon and later Tai Shan incursions. Burmese chronicles state that when Anawrahta invaded the southern parts of modern-day Myanmar in 1057, he ordered the ruins of Sri Ksetra to be destroyed to prevent rebels from sheltering there. The Burmese came to call the old Pyu center Pyi. The extensive ruins have been the subject of intensive archaeological investigation.

Strand Road in 1910.

Called Prome by the British (after the name that appears in the Portuguese texts of the 17th century), the city became part of British territory after the Second Anglo-Burmese War in 1853. The town was taken by the British in 1825 during the Battle of Prome and again in 1852, on both occasions with hardly any opposition. In 1862, it was almost entirely destroyed by fire, and was afterwards relaid out in straight and broad streets. It was erected into a municipality in 1874, and since then great improvements have been made, including waterworks.

Indian troops of the 20th Division search for Japanese at the badly damaged station in Prome, 3 May 1945.

During World War II the city was the site of the Battle of Prome. The city was later retaken by the British Army in May 1945.

Climate

[edit]

Pyay has a tropical savanna climate (Köppen climate classification Aw). Temperatures are hot throughout the year, especially in the months before the monsoon from March to May when average maximum temperatures exceed 36 °C or 96.8 °F. The winter months from December to February are somewhat milder than the rest of the year. There is a winter dry season from December to April and a summer wet season from May to November, although rainfall during this wet season is much less extreme than in coastal cities like Yangon or especially Sittwe.

Climate data for Pyay (1991–2020)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 32.6
(90.7) 		35.5
(95.9) 		37.9
(100.2) 		38.9
(102.0) 		36.1
(97.0) 		32.3
(90.1) 		31.3
(88.3) 		31.4
(88.5) 		32.7
(90.9) 		33.6
(92.5) 		33.3
(91.9) 		31.9
(89.4) 		33.9
(93.0)
Daily mean °C (°F) 24.4
(75.9) 		26.6
(79.9) 		29.5
(85.1) 		31.8
(89.2) 		30.8
(87.4) 		28.5
(83.3) 		27.9
(82.2) 		27.9
(82.2) 		28.5
(83.3) 		28.8
(83.8) 		27.5
(81.5) 		25.1
(77.2) 		28.1
(82.6)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 16.3
(61.3) 		17.7
(63.9) 		21.2
(70.2) 		24.6
(76.3) 		25.5
(77.9) 		24.7
(76.5) 		24.5
(76.1) 		24.5
(76.1) 		24.4
(75.9) 		24.1
(75.4) 		21.7
(71.1) 		18.2
(64.8) 		22.3
(72.1)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 4.3
(0.17) 		0.7
(0.03) 		4.9
(0.19) 		36.5
(1.44) 		145.9
(5.74) 		260
(10.2) 		218.5
(8.60) 		232.8
(9.17) 		219.1
(8.63) 		130.8
(5.15) 		30.2
(1.19) 		4.1
(0.16) 		1,287.8
(50.70)
Average precipitation days (≥ 1.0 mm) 0.4 0.1 0.7 2.1 9.6 18.9 19.8 19.7 15.8 10.1 2.7 0.4 100.3
Source: World Meteorological Organization[4]

Economy

[edit]
Sign indicating city limits of Pyay

The main crop is rice, but some cotton and tobacco are grown, while the custard apples are famous. Sericulture is extensively carried on by a special class. The forests yield teak and cutch, cotton and silk-weaving are important industries; there are also manufactures of ornamental boxes, coarse brown sugar and cutch.

Culture

[edit]
A post card of Shwesandaw Pagoda in Pyay dating to 1910.

For a town of its size, Pyay is well-renowned for a number of local delicacies.[5] It is reputed for the Pyay palata (ပြည်ပလာတာ), consisting of paratha, Burmese chicken and potato curry, and raw onions.[6] It is also known for a number of Burmese salads, including the Pyay rice salad (ပြည်ထမင်းသုပ်) and Pyay assorted salad (ပြည်အသုပ်စုံ).[5][7]

Pyay also produces a local pickled delicacy called taw laphet (တောလက်ဖက်; lit. 'rural laphet') or Nibbinda laphet (နိဗ္ဗိန္ဒလက်ဖက်).[8] Originating from Burmese nunneries in the hills surrounding Pyay, the laphet is fermented from the leaves of the naywe (နရွဲ) tree, or kyettet (ကြက်တက်), the Combretum pilosum plant.[9][10] The pulp is then tightly wrapped into dried banbwe (ဘန့်ပွေး) leaves and left soaking in regularly changed water for up to 2 years, before it is consumed.[9] Taw laphet is otherwise consumed in an identical fashion to traditional laphet.[9]

Tourism

[edit]
Shwesandaw Pagoda is located in the center of Pyay.

To the south and south-east, the town is closed in by low pagoda-topped hills, on one of which stands the conspicuous gilded Shwesandaw Pagoda. The Shwesandaw Pagoda is a notable Buddhist pagoda in the center of Pyay.[11]

To the west of Pyay, crossing Irrawaddy river through Nawaday bridge, stands the Shwebontha Muni Pagoda. The Buddha statue is one of three replica of the Maha Myat Muni Buddha statue, believed to date back 554 B.C. when the king Sandar Thuriya ruled.[12]

View of Nawaday Bridge from Mingyi Hill in January 2012
Bawbawgyi Stupa in Sri Ksetra Pyu Ancient City

Education

[edit]

Pyay City has three universities and one degree college. The universities are Pyay University (PU), Pyay Technological University (PTU), and Computer University, Pyay. Pyay University is situated near to the town centre of Pyay. PTU, which is one of the highest-ranked universities in Myanmar, is situated between Hnawgone and Latkhoukpin village, a few miles away from Pyay. CU, Pyay is situated near the new town. Pyay Education Degree College is located on Pyay-Magway Road near Titut Village.

Healthcare

[edit]
  • Pyay 500-bed General Hospital
  • Pyay Traditional Medicine Hospital
  • Aung Zaw Oo - 1 Private Hospital
  • Aung Zaw Oo - 2 Private Hospital
  • Myo Thuka Private Hospital
  • Aung Tharaphu Private Hospital
  • Lawkaparla Private Hospital
  • Pyi Myanmar Private Hospital
  • Paramishin Private Hospital
  • Thanlwin Private Hospital

Notable people

[edit]
  • U Nyi Pu (1900-1996), a Burmese actor and film director, the very first film actor in Burmese cinema
  • A1 Tin Maung (1908-2000), a two-time Burmese Academy Award-winning film actor, director and producer, the youngest brother of U Nyi Pu
  • General Thura Kyaw Htin (1925-1996), Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Union of Burma, former Deputy Prime Minister of Burma and Minister of Defence
  • Khin One (1947-2000), Burmese painter, writer and singer
  • Thukhamein Hlaing (1948), Burmese poet, songwriter and writer

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Pyay

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from Grokipedia
Pyay is a city and the administrative seat of Pyay Township in the of , situated on the western bank of the Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy) River in the central dry zone, approximately 260 kilometers northwest of . With an estimated urban population of around 135,000 as of 2025, it functions as a key regional trading center for agricultural commodities such as , pulses, and , supporting the local through riverine and markets. The city is particularly notable for its proximity to the ancient Pyu city-state of Sri Ksetra, located just 8 kilometers to the southeast in Hmawza Village, which forms part of Myanmar's first —the Pyu Ancient Cities—recognized in 2014 for its role in introducing and to between the 2nd century BCE and 9th century CE. Historically, the area around Pyay has been inhabited since the Pyu era, with Sri Ksetra serving as the capital of a prominent kingdom that flourished from the 1st to 9th centuries CE, featuring advanced architecture, moated walls, and irrigation systems that influenced later Burmese civilizations. Modern Pyay developed as a colonial-era river port under British rule in the , becoming an important node for trade along the Ayeyarwady and a hub for the surrounding fertile delta's agricultural output. Today, the city's economy remains agrarian-focused, with monsoon paddy cultivation covering over 45,000 acres in Pyay District and irrigation projects enhancing productivity, while tourism to Sri Ksetra's archaeological remains— including stupas like Bawbawgyi Pagoda and burial urns with Pyu inscriptions—draws visitors interested in Myanmar's pre-Bagan heritage. Pyay's cultural landscape blends ancient and contemporary elements, highlighted by landmarks such as the Shwesandaw Pagoda, a 19th-century structure offering panoramic views of the river, and ongoing excavations at Sri Ksetra that have uncovered over 65 hillocks since , revealing artifacts tied to early Buddhist practices. The city's strategic location has also made it vulnerable to natural events, including earthquakes, prompting seismic risk assessments that note its and urban expansion from 21.76 square kilometers in 1990 to 34.48 square kilometers by recent years. As part of Bago Region's broader development, Pyay continues to balance its historical significance with modern infrastructure needs, including digital museum upgrades at local pagodas to preserve and promote its Pyu legacy.

Geography and Environment

Location and Topography

Pyay is situated on the eastern bank of the Ayeyarwady River in the western part of , , approximately 260 km northwest of . The city spans latitudes from 18°45′N to 18°52′N and longitudes from 95°12′E to 95°17′E, placing it within a strategic position along the river's course. This location facilitates its role as a key transport and trade hub connecting central to the delta regions. Administratively, Pyay's urban area covers 34.48 km² as of 2018, reflecting expansion from 21.76 km² in 1990 through eastward, southward, and northward growth, though constrained westward by the Ayeyarwady River. It forms the core of , which encompasses a larger 788.4 km² area with a of 319.2 persons per km², and is part of the broader Pyay District. The of Pyay features flat lowland plains at an average of 61 meters above , with northern sections dipping below 30 meters, creating expansive alluvial deposits from the Ayeyarwady that support intensive . The city is nestled between the to the west and the Pegu Yoma range to the east, forming a narrow that channels the river's flow and influences local landforms. Notable natural elements include the Thani and Nawin rivers as principal tributaries draining into the Ayeyarwady, alongside the nearby ancient Sri Ksetra ruins approximately 8 km southeast. Geologically, Pyay occupies a seismically active zone along the Sagaing Fault, a major strike-slip boundary extending southward along the Ayeyarwady River north of the city, which has historically produced earthquakes in the region and shapes urban planning for seismic resilience.

Climate

Pyay experiences a tropical savanna climate classified as Aw under the Köppen system, marked by consistently high temperatures and a distinct seasonal shift between wet and dry periods. This classification reflects the region's location in Myanmar's central dry zone, where hot conditions prevail year-round, with a pronounced monsoon influence driving the wet season. Based on 1991-2020 averages, the annual mean in Pyay is 28.5°C, underscoring its persistently warm environment. The hottest months occur from to May, when daytime highs frequently exceed 36°C, contributing to intense heat stress during the pre-monsoon period. In contrast, the coolest months span December to February, with temperatures ranging from nighttime lows around 15°C to daytime highs of about 30°C, offering a relative respite from the summer peaks. Annual precipitation totals approximately 2,000 mm, concentrated almost entirely in the from May to , driven by the southwest that brings heavy, sustained rains. The dry season from December to sees minimal rainfall, often less than 10 mm per month, resulting in parched conditions that highlight the climate's bimodal nature. Extreme weather records include a high of 42.5°C recorded in 2010, illustrating the potential for severe events. Pyay's proximity to the River exacerbates vulnerability to cyclones and flooding during the , as overflows can inundate low-lying areas. Relative humidity in Pyay typically ranges from 70% to 90%, peaking during the and fostering lush vegetation around the city despite the designation. However, this high moisture, combined with intense rains, poses risks to , such as flooding in rice paddies that can disrupt cultivation cycles. The region's patterns notably support rice production as a staple , enabling multiple harvests in favorable wet conditions.

History

Etymology

The name "Pyay" (Burmese: ပြည်) derives from the Burmese word meaning "" or "capital," underscoring the city's longstanding significance as a political and cultural center in Myanmar's . This designation reflects its proximity to ancient power structures, positioning Pyay as a symbolic "nation" within the Burmese linguistic framework. Historically, the name is closely associated with the nearby Pyu city-state of Sri Ksetra, established as the capital of the Pyu kingdom around the 5th to 9th centuries CE and translating to "City of Prosperity" or "Blessed Field" in . Sri Ksetra, located about 8 kilometers southeast of modern Pyay, served as a major urban center for the Pyu people, one of the earliest Tibeto-Burman groups in the region, and its ruins highlight the area's role as an ancient hub of Buddhist civilization and trade. During the colonial era, the city was alternatively known as "Prome," a term originating from 17th-century Portuguese records and later adopted by the British as a phonetic approximation of the Burmese name. Linguistically, the evolution of Pyay's name traces from the Pyu era's Indo-Aryan influenced nomenclature, such as the Sanskrit-derived Srīkṣetra, to its adoption in modern Burmese, where "pyay" functions as a denoting urban or national importance, as seen in place names like . This shift occurred as Burmese speakers integrated and adapted elements from earlier Pyu and Mon linguistic substrates following the decline of Pyu dominance in the . In historical records, Sri Ksetra—intimately tied to Pyay's etymology—first appears in ancient Pyu inscriptions on stone urns and artifacts dating from the 5th to 9th centuries CE, documenting royal names, , and administrative details. British colonial maps and documents consistently employed "Prome" until Myanmar's independence in 1948, after which the indigenous Burmese name "Pyay" was reinstated in official usage.

Ancient and Medieval Periods

The ancient history of Pyay is inextricably linked to the , which dominated the region from the 2nd century BCE to the 9th century CE, with Sri Ksetra emerging as the paramount center near the modern town. Sri Ksetra, located along River, represented the pinnacle of Pyu urbanism, featuring an extensive walled enclosure spanning at least 18 square kilometers and sophisticated moats that supported a thriving Buddhist monastic tradition. This city served as a major hub for Theravada Buddhism in Southeast Asia, evidenced by early inscriptions and monumental structures that underscore the Pyu's adoption of Indian-influenced religious practices by the 5th century CE. The Pyu's mastery of systems facilitated wet-rice agriculture, enabling population growth and economic stability in the dry zone of the Ayeyarwady basin, a legacy that shaped subsequent agrarian practices in . Key archaeological sites around Pyay illuminate the Pyu era's cultural depth. The Bawbawgyi Stupa, situated south of Sri Ksetra's walls, exemplifies early Pyu architecture with its 153-foot-high cylindrical form on five concentric terraces, constructed in the 6th–7th century CE using large bricks and featuring hollow interiors that housed terracotta votive tablets. Beikthano, another prominent Pyu capital located north of Pyay, influenced the region's strategic positioning through its brick-walled , burial urns, and advanced water management, contributing to the networked urban landscape that defined Pyu influence in central . These sites highlight the Pyu's innovative brick temple designs, including hollow structures with pilasters and Buddha niches, which served as prototypes for later Burmese architecture and demonstrated their expertise in terracotta craftsmanship for religious artifacts. By the 9th century, Sri Ksetra experienced decline, attributed to external pressures such as invasions from the Nanzhao kingdom and possible environmental shifts affecting irrigation-dependent agriculture, leading to the gradual abandonment of the site. The region transitioned under Mon influence in the lower Irrawaddy areas during the 9th–11th centuries, where Mon kingdoms promoted Theravada Buddhism and trade along riverine routes. In the 11th century, King Anawrahta of the Pagan Empire conquered remaining Pyu and Mon territories, including Sri Ksetra in 1057 CE, integrating their cultural elements into a unified Burmese polity; Pyay's location solidified its role as a vital trade nexus on the Irrawaddy, facilitating exchanges between India, China, and inland Southeast Asia through the 13th century. The Pyu's architectural and agricultural innovations endured, influencing Pagan's temple-building boom and wet-rice expansion, while environmental adaptations like canal systems persisted in the medieval landscape.

Colonial and Modern History

Pyay, formerly known as Prome, was captured by British forces on 9 October 1852 during the Second Anglo-Burmese War, marking the annexation of Lower Burma to British . The town subsequently became the headquarters of the Prome District within the Lower Burma province, serving as a key administrative hub for colonial governance in the Irrawaddy Valley. The completion of the Rangoon and Irrawaddy Valley State Railway in 1877 connected Prome to Rangoon (now ), facilitating trade and boosting the local economy through exports of commodities such as and from the surrounding districts. This infrastructure development contributed to , with Prome's residents numbering around 27,375 by 1901, driven by expanded commercial activities. During , Prome fell under Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945 following the British withdrawal amid the Japanese advance into . The Battle of Prome in April 1942 highlighted the strategic importance of the town in the campaign. After 's independence in 1948, Pyay emerged as a significant administrative center in the newly formed Bago Division, supporting regional governance and development. In the 1960s, under General Ne Win's socialist regime, policies extended to industries across , including those in Pyay, shifting economic control toward state-owned enterprises and altering local trade patterns. The 1988 pro-democracy uprisings, which swept nationwide and led to the collapse of the socialist government, affected Pyay as part of the broader unrest that prompted military intervention by the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC). In 1989, as part of SLORC's reforms, the town was officially renamed Pyay from its colonial-era name Prome, aligning with the regime's broader nomenclature changes. These shifts initiated limited , fostering growth in and by the . The region experienced indirect effects from in 2008, which devastated the nearby , straining resources and aid distribution in Pyay. The 2021 military coup further impacted the area, though Pyay maintained relative stability as a regional administrative point amid nationwide protests and conflict.

Recent Events

Following the 2021 military coup in , Pyay experienced minor protests as part of the nationwide resistance, with local demonstrations drawing smaller crowds compared to urban centers like , where large-scale clashes occurred. Increased military presence was noted in the town to maintain order, contributing to a relative calm amid the broader civil unrest that has persisted since the coup. A major escalation in Pyay's recent challenges came with the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central on March 28, 2025, at 12:50 p.m. , with its near along the Fault. The quake caused 161 deaths in Pyay Township alone, alongside widespread building collapses, including hospitals and residential structures, exacerbating the town's vulnerabilities. Infrastructure damage was severe, disrupting local transportation and access to . The led to significant displacement of residents in Pyay, as homes and facilities were rendered uninhabitable, forcing many into temporary shelters. Regional economic losses from the were estimated at $1.27 billion for as of April 2025, reflecting the scale of destruction to , , and trade routes. Recovery efforts began immediately in April 2025, with international aid coordinated by the and providing emergency supplies, medical teams, and temporary housing to affected areas in Pyay. The Myanmar government declared emergency zones in Pyay Township to facilitate operations and restrict access to damaged sites. Efforts also included the restoration of cultural heritage sites, with support from local and international organizations. As of November 2025, ongoing recovery includes International Labour Organization-led initiatives to rebuild jobs and livelihoods in earthquake-affected communities. Ongoing challenges in Pyay have been amplified by persistent civil unrest following the 2021 coup, which has strained resources and complicated aid distribution. The 2025 monsoon floods, occurring in June and July, further hindered recovery by inundating already weakened infrastructure and displacing additional residents, leading to population shifts as families migrated to safer areas within or beyond.

Demographics and Society

Population and Demographics

As of 2025 estimates, the urban of Pyay stands at approximately 135,308 residents. The broader Pyay , often considered the , recorded a of 221,331 in the 2024 , reflecting a decline from 251,643 in the 2014 . Pyay encompasses a larger area with 564,391 inhabitants as per the same 2024 data. The district experiences an annual population growth rate of -1.2% from 2014 to 2024, attributed to ongoing and out-migration to larger centers like . This has resulted in a of 95.64 people per square kilometer across the district's 5,901 km². These figures draw from 's 2024 provisional results and adjustments based on the 2014 , noting that full subnational breakdowns were impacted by national instability, with no comprehensive 2024 urban completed due to conflict. World Bank projections for 2025 further inform urban estimates amid these challenges. According to the 2014 , literacy in was 92.3%, with higher rates in urban areas like Pyay. Demographically, Pyay mirrors national trends with a median age of around 30 years, indicating a relatively young . There is a slight female majority, comprising 53.1% of the national as recorded in the 2024 census, influenced by factors such as migration patterns and differences. A youth bulge persists due to a crude of 16.7 per 1,000 people nationally in recent years, contributing to a higher proportion of individuals under 15. Urbanization in Pyay has shown steady expansion since 1990, with the built-up growing from 21.76 square kilometers to 34.48 square kilometers by 2018, driven by economic opportunities and development. However, the March 28, 2025, magnitude 7.7 centered near caused significant displacement in Pyay Township, where at least 161 fatalities occurred, temporarily reducing urban density as thousands relocated to safer areas or rural zones. As of November 2025, recovery efforts have allowed some returnees, but exact updated displacement figures remain limited due to ongoing challenges.

Ethnic and Religious Groups

Pyay's ethnic composition reflects broader patterns in central Myanmar's , where the Bamar (Burman) people form the majority, with significant Mon and Karen minorities, both groups with deep historical roots in the area. Smaller communities of Indian and Chinese residents, descendants of colonial-era traders and laborers, contribute to the city's multicultural fabric. These patterns are derived from the 2014 Myanmar Population and Housing Census data for . Religiously, is predominant in Pyay, aligning with the Bago Region's figure of 93.5% from the 2014 . Muslim communities, primarily of Indian and Rohingya descent, and , mainly among Karen groups, form minorities; animist beliefs persist among some hill tribe populations at trace levels. These demographics underscore 's central role in daily life and community events. No substantial changes have occurred since the census, maintaining relative stability amid national challenges. The Bamar culture in Pyay bears strong influences from ancient Pyu and Mon civilizations, evident in archaeological sites like the nearby Sri Ksetra ruins, which highlight early urban settlements and cultural synthesis dating back to the 1st century BCE. Post-colonial migrations in the mid-20th century further diversified the population, as Indian and Chinese traders settled during British rule and remained after independence. Social dynamics in Pyay emphasize harmonious coexistence, with inter-ethnic festivals such as (Burmese New Year) fostering unity among Bamar, Mon, and Karen groups. While tensions remain minimal in the urban core, the 2021 military coup has heightened sensitivities in peripheral Karen areas, though Pyay has seen no major conflicts.

Notable People

U Nyi Pu (1900–1996), often regarded as the pioneering figure in Burmese cinema, was born in Pyay Township and became the first in Myanmar's film industry during the 1920s. He starred in and directed early silent films, including the landmark Myitta Nit Thuya (Love and Liquor) in 1920, which marked the debut of locally produced feature films in the country. His work laid the foundation for the Burmese movie industry, transitioning from theater to screen and influencing subsequent generations of filmmakers through his A1 Film Company. General Kyaw Htin (1925–1996), a prominent leader born in Pyay (then known as Prome), rose to become of the Armed Forces and Minister of Defense under General 's regime from 1974 onward. He played a key role in the 's structure during the era, overseeing defense operations and rising through ranks from infantry commander to vice (Army) in 1974. Known for his close association with Ne Win, Kyaw Htin contributed to the consolidation of authority in post-independence until his retirement. Pyay Ti Oo (born 1978), a contemporary and model strongly associated with Pyay through his origins in the , has won five Myanmar Motion Picture for his roles in films like New Moon Wednesday. Beyond entertainment, he emerged as a notable figure in post-2021 pro-democracy efforts, publicly supporting the movement against the military coup and facing alongside his wife, actress , in April 2021 for his activism. Released in 2022, his involvement highlighted the role of Pyay-linked celebrities in national resistance. Pyay has also produced local politicians and independence activists, such as figures involved in early 20th-century nationalist movements, alongside artists and scholars affiliated with Pyay University, which has fostered contributions to regional education and cultural studies. In recent years, following the 2021 military coup and the March 2025 M7.7 earthquake along the Fault that impacted central including communities, local relief efforts have been coordinated amid ongoing conflict.

Economy

Agriculture

Agriculture in Pyay, located in Myanmar's Bago Region along the Irrawaddy River, is dominated by rice cultivation as the primary staple crop, supported by river irrigation that enables high yields averaging around 3 tons per hectare in the region. Other significant crops include cotton as a cash crop, with plantations expanded in Pyay Township to meet domestic textile demands, and custard apples, a seasonal fruit traded from Pyay to markets in Yangon and Mawlamyine. Tobacco production, while present nationally, contributes less prominently in Pyay compared to rice and cotton. The Pyay District supports substantial production, with approximately 45,000 acres of paddy fields contributing to the Bago Region's overall output of about 2.5 million tons annually pre-2022, though district-specific figures in peak years before disruptions remain approximate. Seasonal cycles involve planting from May to early for the crop, with harvesting typically in , while dry-season is sown from to and reaped by March, relying on from . Resource extraction complements farming, with teak logging from nearby mixed deciduous forests in the managed by the state-owned Myanma Timber Enterprise for both domestic use and export. Cutch, derived from Acacia catechu heartwood, is extracted from sha forests in central and transported via River for tanning industry exports, supporting local economies through regulated harvesting. Agricultural challenges in Pyay include recurrent monsoon flooding, which reduced Bago Region rice output by 16% from 2.835 million tons in 2021 to 2.393 million tons in 2022, exacerbating food insecurity. The March 28, 2025, 7.7-magnitude earthquake further damaged croplands, irrigation systems, and storage in central Myanmar, including Bago, disrupting planting seasons and threatening yields amid ongoing recovery efforts. The earthquake exposed over 3.7 million hectares of cropland to risks and caused widespread damage to agricultural infrastructure; in parts of Bago Region, such as Taungoo Township, all rice fields were destroyed. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has scaled up emergency responses, providing seeds, tools, and support to affected farmers as the planting season neared in 2025. Efforts to shift toward organic methods have gained traction post-2010, with initiatives promoting eco-farming to reduce chemical inputs and enhance soil health, though adoption remains limited by access to markets and training. Approximately 36.2% of employed persons aged 15-64 in Pyay Township were engaged in agriculture, forestry, and fishing as of the 2014 census, reflecting national trends where the sector employs over half the labor force, with cooperatives established since the 1960s under nationalization policies to provide credit, inputs, and marketing support to smallholders. These cooperatives, rooted in post-independence reforms, continue to aid rice and cash crop production despite challenges from political instability.

Industry and Trade

Pyay's non-agricultural economy centers on , , and production, supporting the broader Bago Region's growth. employs about 7.1% of the workforce in , with activities including small-scale and emerging production. A notable development is the planned agro-textile in , spanning 250-258 acres, aimed at integrating agricultural outputs with to enhance local industry capabilities. Energy infrastructure includes the Shwedaung Open Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) power plant near , a gas-fired facility with three units commissioned between 1982 and 2006, operated by the Electric Power Enterprise to supply regional needs. Approximately 59.9% of households in Pyay Township rely on for , reflecting the plant's role in local power distribution. Trade is a cornerstone, with wholesale and retail activities employing 17.0% of the local , facilitated by Pyay's position as a river port on . The port handles general cargo, including exports of and timber products like destined for downstream hubs such as , contributing to 's broader commodity trade flows. Local markets distribute processed goods, underscoring Pyay's function as a commercial node for the Ayeyarwady Delta region. Following Myanmar's after , Pyay has seen incremental industrial growth, including small factories attracted by policy shifts toward market-oriented reforms. Tourism-related services, such as accommodation and food services, employ 8.7% of workers and have expanded with initiatives to develop new sites near the Pyu ancient city, aligning with national efforts to boost visitor numbers pre-2025. The , encompassing Pyay, targeted 3.9% GDP growth for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, with per capita GDP estimated at 2.788 million kyat, though these goals were severely impacted by the March 2025 earthquake, contributing to national economic contraction estimated at 2.5% for FY 2025/26 and overall damages of (14% of GDP). The March 2025 earthquake in central has exacerbated challenges, causing supply chain disruptions in through damaged infrastructure and heightened economic pressures, including reliance on for imports. Unemployment rates, already notable among youth at around 11.6% for females aged 15-24 as of 2014, have likely risen due to impacts on and trade sectors, with over 3.5 million workers nationwide facing potential income losses.

Infrastructure and Services

Education

Pyay's higher education landscape is anchored by several key institutions that provide undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various disciplines. Pyay University, established on November 11, 1999, as part of Myanmar's efforts to expand regional access to , offers degrees in arts and sciences, serving students primarily from the and surrounding areas. Technological University, Pyay, founded in 1998 under the Ministry of Science and Technology, specializes in and , delivering bachelor's and master's programs to foster technical expertise in one of Myanmar's three senior engineering universities. The University of Computer Studies, Pyay, operational since 2004 and elevated to university status in 2007, focuses on and , offering five-year B.C.Sc. and B.C.Tech. degrees to address growing demands in digital fields. At the secondary and primary levels, education in Pyay is supported by a network of public schools and one prominent degree college. Pyay Education Degree College, evolved from a teacher training college established in 1968 and formalized as a college in 2014, enrolls approximately 475 students in education-focused programs, contributing to teacher preparation for the region. Public schools across Pyay Township number in the dozens, with school attendance rates remaining relatively high until age 12, though dropping thereafter due to socioeconomic factors; these institutions serve a significant portion of the local youth population in basic education. The area's literacy rate stands at 96.9 percent for individuals aged 15 and over, surpassing the national average of 89.5 percent reported in the 2014 census and reflecting stronger educational outcomes in urban Pyay compared to rural averages. Educational developments in Pyay have aligned with national reforms initiated after 2011, which included increased government spending on education—nearly tripling from 2010 levels—and curriculum updates to enhance quality and access. These changes supported institutional expansions, such as the upgrading of technical colleges to universities in the region, promoting decentralized higher learning. Following the March 28, 2025, magnitude 7.7 earthquake along the Sagaing Fault, which caused significant structural damage in central Myanmar including Pyay Township where 161 fatalities occurred, educational continuity was maintained through the introduction of online programs and temporary learning spaces to mitigate disruptions. Challenges persist in Pyay's education system, exacerbated by ongoing political unrest since the 2021 military coup, which has led to widespread teacher shortages as over 400,000 educators joined the Civil Disobedience Movement, resulting in classroom closures and reduced instructional quality nationwide. The 2025 earthquake further compounded these issues, damaging over 2,500 schools nationwide and forcing shifts to alternative delivery methods. As of November 2025, recovery efforts continue with international aid supporting the reconstruction of affected educational facilities in the region. Despite these hurdles, Pyay's educational institutions have produced graduates who contribute to the local sector, particularly from and computer studies programs that align with Myanmar's emerging needs. Scholarships targeting ethnic minorities, such as those offered through organizations like Prospect Burma for disadvantaged youth from diverse backgrounds, provide opportunities for higher education access in the region, supporting inclusivity amid broader societal challenges.

Healthcare

Pyay's healthcare system is primarily served by the government-operated Pyay General Hospital, a key public facility with a capacity of approximately 200 beds, though actual utilization has reached up to 280 beds in recent assessments. This hospital provides essential services including emergency care, general medicine, and treatment for common regional ailments. Complementing it are private institutions such as the Myanmar Specialist Hospital, which operates with 500 beds and focuses on specialized services like cardiovascular medicine, infectious and tropical diseases, , , and gynecology, supported by on-site operating rooms, intensive care units, advanced imaging, and laboratories. Other private clinics, including Myo Thu Kha Hospital and Aung Zaw Oo Hospital, offer additional outpatient and , contributing to a regional total of around 600 beds across scheduled general hospitals in Bago Division. Public health efforts in Pyay emphasize prevention and management of tropical diseases, particularly , through WHO-supported national programs that include monitoring, early diagnosis, and treatment initiatives extended to townships like Pyay. The National Malaria Control Programme operates in Pyay, integrating workers in rural areas to deliver testing, treatment, and , aligning with Myanmar's goal to eliminate by 2025. These efforts have incorporated drives and enhancements following the March 2025 earthquake, which disrupted services and increased risks of disease outbreaks in affected communities. Maternal and child health services are also prioritized, with facilities addressing high regional burdens of infectious diseases. Health indicators in , including where Pyay is located, reflect ongoing challenges, with national life expectancy at birth 66.9 years and at 34 deaths per 1,000 live births as of 2023. The 2025 7.7-magnitude earthquake in central , which struck areas including Bago, caused widespread damage to and overwhelmed healthcare facilities, exacerbating vulnerabilities in Pyay's system. Since the 2021 military coup, the region has faced severe disruptions, including over 1,000 documented attacks on healthcare nationwide by late 2023, with specific incidents like the October 2021 entry and arrest at Pyay Hospital by , leading to medicine shortages, staff shortages, and delayed recoveries into mid-2025. These factors have strained access to care, particularly in rural townships, though community-based programs continue to provide frontline support.

Transportation

Pyay's road network is integral to its regional connectivity, with the city situated along the Yangon-Mandalay Highway, a key artery spanning approximately 288 kilometers from and facilitating overland travel to northern . This route, designated as National Highway 2, supports frequent bus services operated by companies such as Mandalar Minn Express, with around 11 daily departures from to Pyay taking 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Additionally, the Pyay-Magway Road connects the city northwestward to Magway, approximately 200 kilometers away, enabling bus travel for local commerce and passenger movement. Rail transport in Pyay relies on the , Myanmar's first railway established in during the British colonial period to transport from Delta. The line offers one daily train service from , covering the 288-kilometer distance in about 9.5 hours, though operations have been significantly disrupted since the March 28, 2025, magnitude 7.7 earthquake centered in the . The quake damaged multiple sections of the broader Yangon-Mandalay rail corridor, including 60 embankments, 11 bridges, and bent tracks, necessitating ongoing repairs to bridges and infrastructure in the Pyay vicinity to restore full service. Water transport along the River provides essential links for passengers and goods, with ferries and private vessels operating seasonal services from to Pyay for tourism and freight. Pyay's central cargo port, accessible by trucks up to 8 metric tons, handles riverine shipments of agricultural products and other commodities, though exact annual throughput figures remain limited by navigational challenges in the river's shallow sectors. These services support trade facilitation by moving bulk goods upstream, complementing road and rail networks. Air access to Pyay is constrained, with no operational commercial airport in the city; the nearest facility is Magway Airport, roughly 150 kilometers northwest, which serves limited domestic flights since its opening in 2003. Pyay's own small airstrip, designated VYPY, supports minimal but lacks regular passenger services or upgrades as of recent assessments. Discussions for infrastructure enhancements, including potential airfield expansions, were noted in around 2023, though progress has been stalled by broader national challenges. Transportation in Pyay faces ongoing challenges, particularly following the 2025 earthquake, which severely impacted central 's , including roads and bridges in the Bago and Magway regions, complicating delivery and daily mobility. An estimated significant portion of local roads sustained damage, exacerbating reliance on informal options like motorbikes for short-distance travel amid repair delays. These disruptions have heightened vulnerabilities in regional connectivity, with restoration efforts prioritizing critical routes. As of November 2025, major repairs to rail and networks continue to support gradual recovery.

Culture and Tourism

Cultural Aspects

Pyay's culture is deeply rooted in Burmese traditions with influences from the ancient Pyu civilization, manifesting in everyday practices that blend animist beliefs, Buddhist rituals, and communal activities. Daily life revolves around family and community, where social interactions emphasize harmony and mutual support, often centered around markets and religious observances. These elements create a vibrant tapestry of lived experiences, distinct from purely historical or touristic expressions. Cuisine in Pyay highlights simple yet flavorful dishes that reflect local agricultural bounty and Burmese culinary ingenuity. A notable delicacy is taw laphet, also known as Nibbinda laphet, a pickled preparation made from the leaves of the naywe tree (Gynura procumbens), fermented and sliced thinly before being dressed with toasted sesame seeds, preserved ginger, dried shrimp, peanuts, and Burmese broad beans. Originating from 19th-century Burmese nunneries, this dish exemplifies Pyay's adaptation of the broader Burmese laphet thoke (fermented tea leaf salad) tradition, using rural ingredients for a tangy, crunchy profile that accompanies meals as a palate cleanser. Burmese salads, or chin yok, frequently incorporate local herbs like ngapi (fermented fish paste) and fresh greens from the Irrawaddy River valley, adding earthy, umami notes to everyday fare. Traditions in Pyay underscore a syncretic spiritual life intertwined with seasonal rhythms. The water festival, celebrated in to mark the Burmese , involves communal water-splashing to wash away misfortunes, with locals in Pyay participating through street processions, , and offerings at pagodas, fostering social bonds during the hottest month. Nat spirit worship, an animist practice predating , blends seamlessly with Buddhist devotion; residents honor the 37 great nats—guardian spirits derived from historical figures—through offerings at shrines, seeking protection for health and prosperity alongside Buddhist merit-making. Silk-weaving serves as a cherished cultural , with local artisans producing intricate (sarongs) and shawls on handlooms using silk from regional sources, preserving techniques passed down through generations as a symbol of craftsmanship and economic self-reliance. Arts and media in Pyay draw from early 20th-century Burmese innovations, contributing to the nation's cinematic heritage. The legacy of U Nyi Pu, born in Pyay in 1900 as Ba Htay, exemplifies this influence; as Burma's first film actor, he starred in the 1920 silent film Myitta Nit Athuyar, pioneering the industry and inspiring subsequent generations of filmmakers with his versatile portrayals of everyday Burmese life. Local theater and puppetry, known as yoke thé, remain integral to cultural expression, featuring marionette performances of (Buddha's past lives) and folktales on raised stages, accompanied by traditional music and dance to educate and entertain communities during festivals. Social customs in Pyay emphasize a family-oriented society, where extended households prioritize collective decision-making and elder respect, with nuclear families forming the core unit amid close-knit neighborhood ties. Gender roles reflect relative equality, as women actively manage market trading—handling fresh , textiles, and spices in bustling bazaars like the central Pyay market—while contributing significantly to household finances, a practice rooted in Burmese norms that afford women high economic status. Ethnic contributions from Mon communities in the outskirts further enrich these customs, introducing variations in communal gatherings and artisanal skills. Linguistically, Burmese serves as the predominant language in Pyay, functioning as the for administration, , and daily commerce among the Bamar majority. In the rural outskirts, particularly areas with Mon ethnic presence in the , Mon dialects persist, an Austroasiatic tongue spoken by communities maintaining traditional livelihoods, often alongside Burmese as a to bridge urban-rural divides.

Tourism Attractions

Pyay serves as a gateway to Myanmar's ancient heritage, drawing visitors to its prominent pagodas and archaeological treasures along the River. The Shwesandaw Pagoda, perched on a hill in the town center, features a gleaming golden and offers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the river below, making it a favored spot for sunset observation. Believed to enshrine strands of the Buddha's hair, this 19th-century structure attracts pilgrims and tourists seeking spiritual serenity amid its elevated setting. Across the River via the Nawaday Bridge lies the Shwebontha Muni , a serene relic site housing one of three replicas of the revered Maha Myat Muni image, dating to the BCE. Located in Pan Daung village near Pyay, the complex includes numerous statues and provides a tranquil environment for reflection, enhanced by its peaceful riverside surroundings. Visitors often combine this stop with explorations of the nearby riverbanks for a fuller appreciation of the area's devotional architecture. The Sri Ksetra ruins, situated about 8 kilometers southeast of Pyay, represent a cornerstone of Pyu ancient cities and were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014 for their monumental brick stupas and urban remains from the Pyu Kingdoms (200 BCE–900 CE). Key highlights include the Bawbawgyi Stupa, a distinctive cylindrical brick monument exemplifying early Buddhist architecture, alongside palace citadels, burial grounds, and moated walls that illustrate advanced water management systems still in use today. Exploration of these sites allows visitors to delve into the Pyu civilization through guided walks and the adjacent Hmawza Museum, which displays unearthed artifacts. As of 2025, ongoing restoration efforts address earthquake damage to religious buildings in the Sri Ksetra Cultural Zone, with repairs preserving original architecture and enhanced safety measures implemented for seismic vulnerabilities; some areas may experience partial closures during this work. The March 28, 2025, earthquake has also led to broader disruptions in Pyay's tourism sector, including temporary site restrictions and national travel advisories affecting visitor numbers. Natural attractions complement Pyay's historical draws, particularly River, where leisurely boat rides and sunset cruises offer glimpses of rural life, fishing villages, and the river's expansive beauty. These guided tours, often departing from Pyay's riverfront, provide an accessible way to experience the waterway's scenic allure while connecting to broader Irrawaddy itineraries.

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  130. https://onenewstvchannel.com/en/social-en/religion-en/earthquake-damaged-buildings-in-sri-ksetra-to-be-repaired-and-restored/
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