Over 100,000 Civilians Trapped in Myanmar's Puta-O District Amid Severe Shortages

Over 100,000 civilians in Puta-O district, Kachin state, northern Myanmar, are trapped and facing severe shortages of food, fuel, and basic goods due to ongoing fighting between the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and the military. The conflict has blocked access to the area since March 10, leaving residents in a dire situation.

Why this matters: The humanitarian crisis in Puta-O district highlights the devastating consequences of ongoing conflicts on civilian populations, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities and displacing communities. As the situation remains unresolved, it may lead to further instability and insecurity in the region, with potential repercussions for regional and global peace.

The KIA has been on the offensive in recent weeks, seizing several major positions from junta forces, including camps along the highway leading from its base in Laiza to the state capital Myitkyina. As a result, the road to Puta-O district has been closed for over two months, leading to a scarcity of essential goods, including building materials.

The most critical issue facing residents is the fuel shortage, with gasoline prices ranging between 40,000 and 50,000 kyats per bottle, and over 200,000 kyats (US$49) per gallon. A resident of Puta-O district, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, supply." Another resident emphasized,

Puta-O district comprises five townships: Puta-O, Sumprabum, Nawngmun, Machanbaw, and Khaunglanhpu. The district has a population of over 100,000, according to the General Administration Department. Fuel and basic consumer goods transported from Myitkyina must first pass through Puta-O township to reach Machanbaw, Nawngmun, and Khaunglanhpu townships.

The situation in Puta-O district is part of a broader conflict in Myanmar, where the military and various ethnic armed groups have been engaged in ongoing clashes. The KIA's recent offensive, named Operation 0307, began on March 7, 2024, and has targeted junta bases along the road connecting Myitkyina to Bhamo in Kachin state. The KIA aims to capture these bases to secure its headquarters in Laiza.

In Sumprabum town, located on the Myitkyina-Putao Road, de-mining operations are delaying the return of residents. The KIA and its allied forces are clearing remnants of explosive ordinances from the area after a two-month-long battle. A local resident stated,

The humanitarian crisis in Puta-O district underscores the severe impact of the conflict on civilians, who are left without access to essential human rights and supplies. As the fighting continues, the situation remains dire, with no immediate resolution in sight.

Key Takeaways

• Over 100,000 civilians in Puta-O district, Myanmar, are trapped due to ongoing fighting.
• Residents face severe shortages of food, fuel, and basic goods, with fuel prices reaching $49/gallon.
• The conflict has blocked access to the area since March 10, leaving residents in a dire situation.
• The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) has been on the offensive, seizing positions from junta forces.
• The humanitarian crisis highlights the devastating consequences of ongoing conflicts on civilians.