Soaring temperatures and unreliable electricity are causing a critical drinking water shortage in several villages surrounding Thaton, according to residents and charitable organizations scrambling to provide relief.

Water donations and distributions have become an annual necessity in Thaton and neighboring areas, with the need arising as early as March this year. However, the situation remains dire in some pockets.

"Villages like Kyauklonggyi and Kawsan in Leikinn Ward are still struggling," reported an official from Thaton-based social aid group Akyinna Twelet. "Even within Thaton town, Nang Khai Ward, the railway station area, and Kwatthit are facing water scarcity."

Residents point to the combination of a scorching summer and insufficient electricity as the root cause of the crisis.

"The electricity cuts are a major problem," said a Thaton resident. "We have functioning wells, but without power, we can't pump the water up. Consistent electricity supply would be a game-changer for Thaton's water woes."

The water shortage extends beyond Thaton Township. This summer, nearly all of Mon State is grappling with water scarcity, prompting intervention from the Myanmar Fire Services Department and social associations who are delivering water to desperate communities.