Severe flooding in Myitkyina Township, Kachin State: urgent situation and challenges

Severe flooding in Myitkyina Township, Kachin State: urgent situation and challenges
Published 2 July 2024

Thousands of households in Myitkyina township, Kachin State, are grappling with the devastating impact of severe flooding. 

The floodwaters have inundated homes, including two-story buildings in low-lying wards.

In the past, the large deep hole known as Lwe Kone Aun remained uninhabited. However, displaced persons fleeing from Shwebo and Ye-U townships have now constructed hundreds of houses in this area. Most of these households belong to low-income workers, and some family members have sought refuge on rooftops.

Despite the urgent need for rescue efforts, floodwaters have made it impossible for rescue workers to reach affected wards. The situation is dire, resulting in significant losses for residents. After the flooding subsides, the community will face economic hardships.

As of this afternoon, people continue to seek help, and there are shortages of food and drinking water. The sudden rise in water levels caught many off guard, and rescue workers are struggling due to their own vulnerabilities.

Fuel stations in Myitkyina township are not selling fuel, exacerbating the crisis. Boat owners, unable to fill their vessels, cannot assist flood victims. Despite guidance from relevant authorities, limitations persist.

With no one daring to venture outside, there is a real risk of casualties. Additionally, thousands of workers residing in Chinese-owned banana plantations remain unevacuated due to armed organizations’ presence.

Ko Maung Kyaw, a dedicated rescue worker, sheds light on the challenges faced by those on the ground. Urgent action is needed to address the humanitarian crisis caused by the severe flooding in Myitkyina.

Over 60 people are trapped on the roof of a Plastic Factory located between Tarsan and Maungmaw villages.

 Early this morning, the trapped victims requested evacuation from rescue workers, but no one has come to their aid. There are shortages of drinking water and food. 

Currently, the number of flood victims in Myitkyina township prevents a systematic survey. 

The water level of the Ayeyawady River reached its danger level of 1,406 cm in Myitkyina township yesterday at midnight. However, this afternoon, the water level decreased by over 3 feet. 

The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology predicts that the water level may fall below the danger level within two days, but there will be more rain in the upper Sagaing Region, Kachin, and Chin States.