Work on a new road and bridge project is planned to start in Myanmar during 2019 and is expected to take until 2022 to complete. The construction of this new link will improve transport connections with neighbouring China. The US$100 million project will be carried out in Myanmar’s Shan State, lying on the country’s eastern border with China. In all, the new bridge and road will run for 19.3km and will link Nawngcho with Gote Hteik. The existing road passes through a mountainous area along this stretch and features many switchbacks, posing hazards for users. However the new project is expected to boost both safety and capacity for drivers, while reducing journey times. Work to the road stretch will be carried out by the contractor Oriental Highway. Meanwhile China Harbour Engineering Co is to construct the bridge.