Transportation links have been disrupted by flooding and landslides occurring across Tanintharyi Region, making rescue operations difficult, according to reports.

Since the last week of September, heavy rainfall has caused landslides and flooding in Launglon and Thayetchaung townships in Dawei District. Roads have also been inundated in Dawei Township. In Tanintharyi Township, Myeik District, the Tanintharyi River has risen above its danger level, flooding numerous villages and making the Union Highway impassable.

“A bridge at Thabyar on the approach to Launglon Township was damaged to the point of becoming impassable on September 30. Floodwaters that had overflowed onto roads in Dawei town have receded. Launglon Township is the worst affected area. We have learned that around 20 people have died due to landslides. More than 20 villages have been affected by landslides, and many people are still missing. Rescue workers are making strenuous efforts. There are also people still stranded in Ti Kyit village, which is cut off because connecting roads to other villages are inaccessible. No one can yet provide an exact account of the casualties and damage. Rescue operations are currently the most urgent priority,” a Dawei resident said.

Volunteers said heavy machinery is needed for rescue operations because bridges have collapsed and roads are covered with mud. They said they are delivering emergency supplies while trying to find alternative routes around blocked roads, in consultation with local residents.

All telecommunications operators were also disrupted on September 27 and 28, and only two operators had restored their services as of the latest reports.

In the Dawei area, the Tanintharyi River rose rapidly due to heavy rainfall, reaching 28 feet 4 inches as measured on September 30, above its danger level.

The river has risen to a level just below the river embankment, while numerous villages have already been inundated, according to reports.

A landslide has occurred at Bote Taung in Thayetchaung Township along the Yangon–Dawei–Myeik–Kawthaung Union Highway. Roads in Thayetchaung Township are covered with mud, while flooding between Tanintharyi and Bokpyin townships has also blocked the Union Highway.