The New Asia Road, closed since December 1, 2023, due to ongoing fighting near Kawkareik, remains inaccessible after nearly nine months. Despite the availability of a well-paved road, drivers and passengers are forced to take forest detours, causing significant delays. 

According to drivers, the journey from Myawady to Mawlamyine, which previously took a day, now stretches to three days due to the rough and indirect forest routes. During the last dry season, alternative roads like Htoekawkoe, Kyat U Taung, and Route 1018 were used. However, these routes become nearly impassable during the rainy season. Even when taking the old road, entry into Kawkareik via lower Bo Te is blocked, forcing drivers to use narrow, poorly maintained village roads, extending a one-day trip into a three-day ordeal.

Drivers report increased toll gate charges, adding to the burden, while vehicles struggle to navigate these makeshift routes. The closure of the new Asia Road, which is just an hour’s drive away under normal conditions, has led to increased vehicle damage and anxiety among travelers. Locals are urging the reopening of the Myawady-Kawkareik Downa Taungkyaw Asia Road to revive border trade and ease travel difficulties.