In a twist of fate, the scenic Myawady-Kawkareik-Dawna mountain road, which boasts three distinct routes, has become a tale of diverging paths for passenger buses and cargo trucks. While the Myawady-Htaw Kaw Koe-Nabue Taungkyaw road is the chosen route for these vehicles, the repercussions have been felt far beyond the winding mountain trails.

Consumer goods prices have more than doubled, leaving everyday essentials like rice, chili, onions, potatoes, beans, pulses, areca nuts, and betel leaves significantly pricier. Even items like incense, candles, and other consumer goods have experienced a steep surge in cost. The critics point to two key factors: road conditions and the high cost of transportation.

"Transportation charges have skyrocketed. Previously, a package incurred a fee of around Ks 10,000, but now the burden has doubled to over Ks 20,000. The once-affordable bus tickets on the Myawady-Mawlamyine line have also seen a staggering increase. Where passengers once paid Ks 20,000, they now shell out Ks 60,000 per person. Similarly, the Yangon-Myawady bus line ticket, which used to cost Ks 30,000, has surged to an eye-watering Ks 80,000," said a seller from Bayintnaung Whole Sale Market.

The road section from Myawady-Kawkoe to the mountain’s peak is currently under repair, but the dust-laden journey remains a challenge. Traffic snarls plague every descent, thanks to an abundance of toll gates. However, there’s a silver lining: the road from the mountain’s summit to Htoe Kaw Koe now boasts concrete paving, making traffic slightly more manageable.

"In Myawady town, toll gate fees begin at Maemale village, with a multitude of gates lining the path to the mountain’s base. Once there, travelers must purchase a ticket. However, the mountain itself no longer demands payment. At Htoe Kaw Koe, toll gate fees are verified using the ticket. The road continues, dotted with gates until it intersects with the Htoe Kaw Koe-Nabu-Asia road. For smaller vehicles, the route from the Tagonetaing-Dawlan intersection is less than ideal," said a driver from Myawady-Mawlamyine bus line.

As the road winds through these challenges, the people of Myawady grapple with the consequences: soaring prices and a journey fraught with obstacles. For now, the mountains hold their secrets, and the wheels keep turning, even if the vehicles themselves are scarce.

No vehicles were allowed passing through on new Asia road since the fighting took place in Kawkareik township on December 1, 2023.