Myanmar's traditional Thingyan Water Festival kicked off in Yangon on Sunday with people starting to splash water on each other.

The opening ceremonies of the water festival were launched respectively in the morning at two major water throwing pandals of Yangon Region Government and Yangon City Hall.

The pandals were unveiled by Yangon Region Chief Minister U Myint Swe and Yangon Mayor U Hla Myint.

Traditional dances by dancing troupes of young ladies with colorful dresses highlighted the opening ceremonies of Thingyan Water Festival.

In addition to the two water throwing pavilions, there are over 50 large-scale pandals and more than 30 medium-scale pandals including those erected by businessmen and private companies in the capital.

With CCTV cameras equipped to monitor the movement of people, more than 5,000 police force and security personnel are deployed at large and medium pavilions to ensure the safety of all revellers during the festival.

This year's Myanmar traditional Thingyan water festival runs for four days through April 16, according to the traditional customs.

Of Myanmar's 12 seasonal festivals throughout the year, the water festival is the biggest one.