As a measure to contain the Covid-19 outbreak, the Indian government has closed its border gates with Myanmar as from 15 March. 

Ko Lwin, a local from Rihkhawdar said: “Border pass is not allowed. Myanmar citizens who are working in weaving industry of India are unable to go home. Thingyan (water festival) is banned here. Hundred thousands of Myanmar citizens from Central Myanmar are working in Mizoran,  India. Three days ago, around 200 people reentered Myanmar.”

News agencies in India reported that India will close all  border gates with Myanmar, Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan, as from 15 March, quoting the order of Indian Home Affairs Ministry.  

On 10 March, India closed Moreh-Tamu border gate on India-Myanmar border. On 15 March, India closed Zokhawthar-Rihkhawdar border gate on India-Myanmar border.

A local from Rihkhawdar said: “Yesterday, India opened the border gate to the people who went back to Myanmar. This morning, all border gates are closed. Indian visitors to Reed Lake are unable to enter Myanmar.”