The Kyondoe-Kawkareik section of the Asian Highway, which had been blocked for months by joint forces of the Karen National Union (KNU), Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA), and People’s Defense Force (PDF), has now been reopened by the Tatmadaw, according to a press release from the State Administration Council (SAC) Information Team.

The blockade and attacks began in early April 2024, when the KNU, KNLA, and PDF launched a coordinated offensive to seize control of Kawkareik and key routes including the Hpa-An–Kawkareik–Myawaddy section of the Asian Highway. The groups aimed to disrupt the flow of goods and government administration, targeting the town from both the north—via Kaunghmu, Yankote, and Kyung Sha Kone villages—and the south—via Lam Pha – Asun- Ta Mai Kone.

During the offensive, armed groups launched artillery strikes from a distance, which led to the destruction of departmental buildings and residential homes, forcing many local residents to flee. Tatmadaw forces mounted a counter-offensive between April 19 and 22 to protect Kawkareik and the local battalion headquarters. The attackers were reportedly forced to retreat with heavy losses.

Despite this, the armed coalition resumed operations, aiming to fully capture Kyondoe and Kawkareik by 2025. Since April 13, they had blocked the highway through five routes—including from Aukbote, Yankoke-Kawkareik routes escalating attacks on both towns and disrupting regional trade. This caused significant economic hardship for the local population, leading to rising prices and deteriorating living conditions.

To restore transportation and security, the Tatmadaw launched a counter-insurgency operation along the Kyondoe–Kawkareik highway. Over the course of three months, the military engaged in seven major battles and 85 skirmishes. According to the SAC Information Team, 17 enemy bodies were recovered, and 30 weapons and various equipment were seized. Some senior insurgent leaders were reportedly seriously wounded.

During their retreat, the armed groups destroyed vehicles and obstructed roads with tree branches. The military has since cleared landmines and reopened critical infrastructure, including the Nyinya Thar Lin Bridge and the 5-pillar Bridge.

The Tatmadaw announced on July 24 that the Kyondoe–Kawkareik highway is now accessible to residents, travelers, and transport vehicles. Efforts are ongoing to repair damaged sections, restore traffic flow to Myawaddy, and ensure public safety along the route.

Additionally, the government is implementing rehabilitation programs in Kyondoe and Kawkareik, focusing on restoring the rule of law, ensuring regional stability, and regaining control over nearby villages.

Kawkareik Town is a commercial hub located in Kawkareik District, Kayin State, on the Hpa-An-Myawaddy Highway. It is only 41 miles from Myawaddy, the Myanmar-Thailand border town, and is located on the Asian Highway, which is the main trade route. It is a major junction town with good transportation connections to Myawaddy, Hpa-An, Mawlamyine, and Kyar Inn Seik Gyi.