TODAY

MAHA Bandoola Park, which is located in Kyauktada Township between the Maha Bandoola Road and Merchant Road, received a Blue Plaque from the Yangon Heritage Trust yesterday in recognition of its importance as one of the city’s architectural landmarks.

The Blue Plaque is the tenth that the Trust has granted in the city, following the Government Technical Institute (GTI) and the Lawkanat Building.

The park has played a critical role in the history of the city and is also important to residents. It is adjacent to the famous Sule Pagoda and faces Yangon City Hall.

The park has long been a venue for cultural performances and public gatherings. It has also been associated with political movements since colonial times.

National leaders, including Bogyoke Aung San, campaigned in the park for independence from the British Empire.
After Myanmar’s independence, the site and the surrounding area were the epicentre of democratic movements such as the 8888 Uprising and Saffron Revolution in 2007.

When the British planned the city in 1852, the site was left vacant and known as Tank Square. In 1867-68, the swampy square was levelled and laid out as a public recreation ground.

It was named after Fytche Square, the Chief Commissioner of the British Crown Colony of Burma at the time. The park was redesigned in 2012 by the Yangon City Development Council. The Royal Phillips Corporation installed modern lighting fixtures in the park.

The entrance fee has dropped, and a much-needed children’s playground has also been added. The park has become a popular destination for international visitors and city residents alike.

Other sites that have received Blue Plaques include the Government Central Press, the Myanmar Agricultural Development Bank, the General Post Office, the Central Fire Station, the Armenian Church, the headquarters of AYA Bank and Yangon City Hall.

Ref: GNLM