Number of IDPs increases in Rakhine

IDPs at Arntharywar camp in Minbya (Photo-Arn Thar Gyi)

Published 27 December 2019

Than Hlaing

The number of IDPs in camps in Rakhine State is reached over 96,000 and they are facing difficulty to obtain food in addition to security for women, sources said.

The fighting between the army and the Arakan Army (AA) is continuously for over one year and locals from the areas, where fighting occurs, run away to take shelter at the secure places.

“Food provisions are not sent to some of the IDP camps as donors cannot go there. If the authorities allow them, it will be a convenience for them. Although ICRC and WFP are helping the IDPs, it is not enough. Children and women are not safe to live in the camps,” said Than Naing from Yathedaung.

Similarly, the number of IDPs in Kyauktaw, Mrauk-U, Minbya, Ponnakyun, Buthidaung, Yathedaung and Myebon townships are increased and they are in need of food and health care. Some IDPs are facing health care problems as they are living in poor living conditions, said locals.

“Locals from villages in Minbya Township are run away from their homes due to the fighting. The cost to feed the IDPs is over Ks100,000 per daily. Locals cannot afford to feed them as the number of IDPs is increased. We are concerned about their health. The government cannot provide enough food. We are helping them with what we can. If the government assumes they have the responsibility, they need to deal with the situation as quickly as possible,” he said.

The number of casualties is increased day by day and some of them are killed by land mines, shells, and bullets.

“There are over 3,000 IDPs living in Sinbawgaing camp and they need blankets and warm clothes for children,” said Maung Phyu.

If the fighting is occurred for a long time, there will be more IDPs. There are a few donors and the IDPs will face difficulty to obtain food.

“We are worried about safety for women in the camps especially for pregnant women. In some areas, women are facing indecent assaults as the situation is unstable. I think the authorities should do something for the safety of woman in war-torn areas,” said Zaw Zaw Tun, Secretary of Rakhine Ethnic Congress (REC).